You've found a great deal on a flight to Florida, Caribbean, or Central America, a family resort, or a fabulous cruise. You need a vacation! You've arranged vacation time. The only problem is - the kids are in school! Should you go?  I know that I won't be popular with the teachers out there, but, in most cases, yes, I think you should! 

Why should you consider going? There are so many benefits to traveling with your kids.  First of all, traveling is always educational in some way. Children will always learn something, about the local animals, like the Florida Manatee and Alligators, rainforest of Central America and Caribbean, and especially how the local people live. But whether it's Florida, or a cruise to Mexico, or a week in Jamaica, traveling with your kids is educational and it gives you more time together as a family. 

And, traveling during off peak times gives the best value and reduces any time spent in lines at attractions, restaurants and airports. In today's busy world, where both spouses often work, it's nice to spend time together without worrying about appointments and errands.

Consider several factors before you decide. How old are your kids? If they're preschool or younger, no problem! Even elementary school age is probably okay. How long will you be gone? Almost any school age child should be able to miss a day or two of school. Are you changing more than a couple of time zones? Although your child may only miss a few days of school, they may be jet lagged and may take several more days to get back on your time zone. However, I have found from personal experience, that kids usually do adapt better than adults to time changes.

You've decided to go! Make the absence from school easier on your child. Speak  to your child's teacher as soon as you know your vacation plans. Offer to have your child do some extra work if he or she can't make up some of the work they will miss. Offer to  bring something back for the class - a special book about your destination, for example. Ask if your child can do an informal report to his class about what he did or learned  on his trip. Have him bring maps and pictures. Even younger children can talk about their trip during show and tell. Make it easier on your child's teacher, too!

We all know how hard teachers work, so bring a small gift back for your child's teacher. After all, she probably had to spend extra time getting work together for your child. Most important of all, enjoy the special time with your child. After all, you're traveling with your kids.