Taking a Baby or Toddler on holiday

Travelling with a baby or toddler.

OK, so you're wondering how big the van needs to be and whether you are going to get any sort of break at all? We've been there - and it means we can help you out hugely when considering what to bring on your Holiday to La Croix Spa.

At one end of the scale, let me tell you what you DON'T need to bring, so maybe you can cross these off your list (and perhaps pack a few extra comforts for yourselves!). You don't need to bring:

• Cot - we have five of these (all in great condition)
• Baby bedding
• Pushchair and strollers
• High chairs and booster seats
• Baby nest and activity ring
• Sun tent
• Sterilising equipment (Avent)
• Bath and shower seats (for babies up to 18 months), and bath toys
• Children's tableware and cutlery
• Picnic sets and beach umbrellas for nap-time at the beach
• Potty's and children's toilet seats
• Kid's steps for the bathrooms
• Plug-in Baby monitors

This should save you considerable space in the car!

Things you do need to bring:

• Personal baby / toddlers toys. Whilst we have plenty of them for your child to enjoy, they are for general use and are consequently not "personal" to your little one.
• Baby / toddler nappies, sunscreen and general toiletries. All of these can be purchased locally or we can get them in ready for your stay if you give us a 'shopping list'.
• Books games, DVDs and music. Again, we have plenty here, but if you have a favourite, don't forget to pack it!
• Baby food for the journey. You can buy the rest here. (We've been through it. Ask us what brands are good here).

One thing you should bank on buying in France is toddlers' clothes. They are gorgeous and budget price. Make sure to leave room in your cases to take some back with you.

Once here, then the emphasis is to have a great time and ensure that you relax. All the gites have fitted stair gates and heating (if needed). We can lend you toys for a bit of variety and you have all the facilities of the property in which to relax and entertain yourselves and your little one(s). And we also offer babysitting (by pre-arrangement).

The games room has a variety of indoor and outdoor toys and games (for all ages) and the children's play area has swings, a see-saw and sand pit. The play area for under 7's is shaded all day by an old oak tree so that your child(ren) can play safely in the sunshine. There are bigger swings outside this area to encourage bigger children away from the little-ones.

The pool area is completely walled in accordance with French Law and you can relax with your little one either in the paddling pool or on the roman steps of the heated main pool. People do take their toddlers in the jacuzzi but this is hot (38 C) and it is not recommended for children under 2 years. There is a toilet and changing area in the pool area so you can really set up camp down here for the day. Mums may be interested to know that we have a beauty therapist who comes to do facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing and massage etc. So you really CAN pamper yourself whilst with your toddler at La Croix Spa.

Of course, ring ahead of your holiday and discuss all your needs and requirements with us.

About the Author: Richard and Paula Martin own and run La Croix Spa, the self catering family holiday and weekend break retreat in SouthWest France. We want you to have the best time you can on your holiday and have prepared these articles to help you make the most of your stay.

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