Having your holiday cancelled can be a stressful and disappointing experience. For parents, there's the added stress of having to explain to your kids that the trip they've been excited about isn't going ahead.
It can be a tricky situation, especially if you have younger children who don't understand why they won't be hitting the pool or getting to spend some fun time with mum and dad away from home.
Sadly, the pandemic has seen millions of Brits facing cancelled trips - and with ongoing travel restrictions abroad, there's still plenty of uncertainty for trips that may already be booked for the summer.
Luckily, one expert is on hand to help. Dr Lucy Davey, a former psychiatrist and professional women’s coach, has shared her top tips for telling your kids a holiday is cancelled - and how to soften the blow in the process.
Check out her advice below...
Have a back-up plan ready
If you've got your money back or can afford to book another holiday while waiting for a refund, you may want to consider having an alternative holiday booked.
Dr Davey explains: "A UK staycation could be an exciting alternative and would still give the kids something to look forward to despite the disappointment. Having this booked when you break the news and even showing them the highlights of their upcoming adventure is a great way to distract them and keep the conversation upbeat."
(For those in need of inspiration, the UK's best family holiday destinations can be a great starting point - and we've also rounded up the best family-friendly beaches to give you a helping hand).
Rehearse what you're going to say
It can be tempting to break the news to the family as soon as you know the holiday isn't going ahead. After all, you're probably more gutted about it than they are. However, it's important to practice what you're going to say, if only so you can convince the kids it's going to be okay.
Choose the right time
Picking the right moment can make the difference between a well-handled situation, and a full meltdown.
Dr Davey suggests: "Try to avoid telling the kids when they are tired and ensure that there is enough time afterwards to process the information and ask any questions."
Honesty is the best policy
You don't need to go into all of the details, but explain to the kids that the plans have had to change, and the situation is beyond your control.
"Teaching resilience at an early age is really important," says Dr Davey. She adds that you can use it as an "opportunity to teach them how to move forward positively in the face of obstacles or disappointment".
Move on quickly
There is no point in rubbing salt in the wound - explain the situation, and then it's time to move forward.
Dr Davey warns: "Try to avoid moping around and feeling down in the dumps about your holiday as the kids will pick up on your negative vibes. Try to remember that there are plenty of things to be grateful for and that can bring joy to your day. Focus on the present rather than pondering on what might have been."
Do you have any other tips for parents who have to break bad news to their kids? Let us know in the comments below.
