Why a Good Kids Club is the Secret to an Epic Family Vacation

Traveling with kids is amazing—until it's not. Let's be real: no matter how much we love our little ones, parenting on vacation is still parenting. That's where a good kids club comes in. It's not just a break for you; it's a whole new world for them. So, what makes a kids club great, and why should we ditch the guilt and embrace it?

What Makes a Good Kids Club?

A killer kids club is more than just a place to park your kid while you sneak off for some adult time—though that's a serious perk. It's about giving your child an experience that's as memorable as the vacation itself. I've traveled all over with my 6-year-old son, and trust me, not all kids clubs are created equal.

Immersive Experiences

The best kids clubs don't just entertain—they immerse your child in the destination. Take the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, for example. Their revamped Kids For All Seasons Club is like stepping into a storybook. Designed by architect Polyanna Paraskeva, the space is inspired by the surrounding mangrove forests, with natural materials and bright colors that mirror the lush environment outside. My son was blown away by the wooden panels that make you feel like you're deep in the jungle. But this isn't just about cool visuals—the club dives into the local ecosystem, teaching kids about the flora and fauna in a way that's hands-on and fun.

One-of-a-Kind Adventures

Another must-have in a top-tier kids club? Unique experiences your child wouldn't get at home. I'm talking zip lining, cooking classes with local chefs, or even mastering water sports with pros. These are the kinds of activities that help kids discover new passions and build confidence—all while you're enjoying some well-deserved downtime.

Gleneagles in Scotland has this down to a science. Their Little Glen Kids Club is like a playground on steroids. Indoor treehouse? Check. Toy campfire and wigwams? Check. And let's not forget the play stables with hobby horses and the Gleneagles Express railway carriage. My son couldn't get enough, and honestly, neither could I. It's a space that's designed to keep kids engaged and learning, all while having the time of their lives.

Why Kids Clubs Matter

Let's be honest: as much as we adore our kids, sometimes we just need a break. A well-run kids club gives you that breather while ensuring your child is not just supervised but actually having a blast. Here's why making the most of a kids club can be a game-changer for your family vacation.

Parents Deserve a Break

Vacation is supposed to be about relaxing, but that's tough to do when you're still on duty 24/7. Those precious hours of downtime—whether you're soaking up the sun, enjoying a quiet meal, or getting a massage—can make all the difference. When you're relaxed and recharged, you're a better parent and can enjoy the vacation.

When we stayed at the Mandarin Oriental Canouan in the Grenadines, the Pirates of Canouan Kids Club was a lifesaver. Located right on the beach, it's packed with activities. My son was all over the adventure pirate ship with slides and climbing frames while I soaked up the quiet time guilt-free. There's also a gaming terrace, a culinary counter for baking classes, and a media center decked out with all the latest tech. Knowing he was having the time of his life made it so much easier to truly unwind.

Guilt-Free Fun

Let's talk about the elephant in the room—parent guilt. It's real, and it's strong. But here's the thing: a great kids club isn't just about giving you a break; it's about giving your child experiences and social interactions they wouldn't get if they were glued to your side. They get to make new friends, try new things, and gain independence—all in a safe, structured environment. And when your kid is having a blast, that guilt? It practically disappears.

Every time my son begged to stay longer at the kids clubs—whether it was bonding with new friends at Gleneagles or exploring marine life at the Four Seasons Costa Rica—I knew we were both getting what we needed.

Growing Independence

Kids clubs are goldmines for fostering independence and social skills. Being in a group of peers from all over the world pushes kids out of their comfort zones. This is especially key for only children or kids who don't get a lot of interaction with others outside their immediate circle.

I've watched my son blossom in these settings, making friends with kids from different cultures and navigating new experiences on his own. It's more than just playtime—it's growing up in real time.

The Scott Dunn Explorers Edge

Scott Dunn takes kids clubs to the next level with their Explorers Kids Clubs. They've set up shop in select resorts across Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Abu Dhabi, the Maldives, and the French Alps, with a focus on expert childcare and a range of activities customized to different age groups. They know parents need guilt-free breaks, so they also offer Stargazers evenings twice a week. That means you can enjoy a grown-up dinner while your kids are entertained and looked after.

Their clubs are designed to immerse kids in the destination and give them experiences they'll remember long after the trip ends. Whether it's a nature walk in the Alps or a cooking class in the Mediterranean, they make sure every activity is as enriching as it is fun.

So, next time you're planning a family vacation, don't hesitate to dive into the kids club experience. Not only will you get the chance to relax and recharge, but your kids will also have the time of their lives—making new friends, trying new activities, and soaking up the destination. A great kids club isn't just a perk; it's a must-have for an unforgettable family vacation. And trust me, as a parent who's been there, it's worth every minute of guilt-free relaxation.

Ready to get the ball rolling on a family adventure?

Get in touch with our specialists to start planning your next family vacation, tapping into the knowledge and understanding of our expert childcare team at our Scott Dunn Explorers Kids Clubs, or one of the other fantastic kids clubs in our carefully curated collection of family-friendly resorts.