There’s nothing that can quite prepare you for the challenges that go hand in hand with becoming a new parent and taking care of a young baby. Whilst those early months can develop into a haze of broken sleep, new routines and nappies – they also bring an ocean-load of brilliantly heart-warming moments. And if there’s any advice we can give to new parents out there, it’s to do it your way!  

It’s also important to remember (through the sleep-deprived haze) that you don’t sacrifice all the things you used to love doing before becoming a parent. And taking the time to discover new things to love is equally uplifting. Everyone needs a little ‘me-time’ so don’t let those guilty feelings take over, time to yourself is important. And not only is it important, you should feel encouraged to indulge in taking the time to enjoy active pursuits or to try new sports – there are a whole host of physical and mental benefits to be gained!

Throwing yourself into a new activity or dedicating time to a sport you already enjoy, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety whilst boosting your sense of wellbeing. The physical benefits of an active lifestyle are also well known but, generally-speaking, you’ll be improving your overall fitness level, strength and coordination skills. All of which certainly help when you’re running around after small children! 

If you were active before becoming a parent then it’s important to maintain an active lifestyle to keep both your brain, mental well-being and body in the best possible condition. In turn, this will help you feel more energised and provide you with that boost to make the early stages of parenting a little easier.

Perhaps you weren’t particularly active prior to becoming a parent but trying a new activity is a great way to get back in shape post-pregnancy or improve your fitness level to help you through some of physical and mental challenges that parenting inevitably brings.

Plus, above all – getting out there and getting stuck into a new activity or spending some time doing a sport you already love will give you a little head space and time to focus on you.

So, we’ve ascertained that everyone needs or a little ‘me-time’ (important for body and mind) and what better time to indulge than whilst you’re all on holiday. An escape from everyday routines provides the perfect opportunity to create time and space to do more of the things you love and/or try new things, whilst also having plenty of time to spend with your family.  

That said, you’ll want to know rest of your family are also having fun whilst you’re off playing (or relaxing) and that’s where we can help! Neilson have spent decades crafting family holidays so we like to think we’ve developed the perfect balance of activity, relaxation, family-time and you-time –even for the very youngest of our guests.

An impressive range of fun-packed kids’ clubs are available on a Neilson Beachclub holiday. Children from as young as four months old through to the grand old age of 17 years can enjoy trying new activities, exploring new places and making new friends. A highly skilled and highly energised Neilson team run our clubs and you’ll be amazed at just how many activities they can squeeze into a day!  

If you’re travelling with a new baby, qualified nannies in the Neilson Starfish créche will take extra special care of your little one and they’ll spend each day beach-adventuring, sandcastle-building, pool-splashing, art-making, cookie-baking, garden-exploring, game-playing and so much more. All in-between those all-important nap, meal and chill-times.    

Beyond the Starfish créche, children in each of the Neilson-run kids’ clubs will have the time of their lives enjoying activities perfect for their age group. From kayaking, dinghy sailing, tennis, paddle (or wobble!) boarding and tennis through to pool games, art-making, baking, exploring and beach antics – there’s never a dull moment.  

So, in a nutshell, don’t feel guilty! Our family friendly holidays cover all bases and are perfect for parents in need of some serious downtime or playtime. Your biggest challenge will be trying to keep them away from the children’s clubs when you’re ready for that family time!