I have 4 kids 14,12, 6 and 4. We have always enjoyed going out in the van and indeed just back today from a 5 night trip.
But the 2 oldest have today announced that they don't want to come in the van any more as (in their words) it's too cramped, the weather is awful, and it isn't fun any more. The 2 youngest however love the van and don't want their big brother and sister to ruin it for them and indeed us.
My daughter has said she will reconsider if we bought a static, but next time we go away, she will go to her grandparents instead. (Non starter btw as nanny and grandad do their own thing these days and certainly won't look after two stroppy teen kids.)
So how do I get them to see sense and not spoil the holidays in future?
------------- Who needs travel agents,we have our static
When they get to the age of 13 and become teenagers they start to have a different outlook on life especially at Christmas time when the children's toys are no longer interesting and become difficult in knowing what to buy them. They usually end up being given money instead but it's not as delightful as opening a present so life becomes dull and less entertaining to which holidays have the same impact. The bucket & spade adventures, seaside paddling and Donkey rides are long gone which is why it is easier to keep young children occupied for longer.
It's about understanding how they feel regarding the lack of excitement so the best solution is to discuss the holiday situation and ask them what they would prefer to do instead. Maybe one day you could spend time on a boat cruise or possibly Dad can take them deep sea fishing or anything else that come to mind that may engage in some interest.
The problem with a lot of teenagers today is that their mobile phone has more importance than anything else in life as you often see them either looking down constantly texting friends or being together taking selfies which is probably why they become bored and lose interest in things that you see as enjoyment.
Our eldest is only 11, so we are not quite into this yet. But we do let them each plan a day of the holiday, what we do, what we eat. Also if they could sleep in sleeping pods or pup tents it would be more of an adventure for them may be. Think it is just natural progression though, my last hols with my parents was at 15 I think.
Get them their own tents for their own space. Have you tried camping abroad? Better weather generally and some great campsites for teenagers in France.
Our two are 16&14, they both screwed their noses up when we said we are getting a caravan, dragged them round the NEC to look at nice shiny new ones, but that didn't make them anymore enthusiastic. Had our van since November last year, they both love it, and are the 1st to pack their clothes in when the time comes.
Think the fact that it is warmer than the tent, and a proper bed, has won them over.
We bought the van thinking it would soon be just the two of us, but that is not looking good at the moment.
Could you try an awning annexe?
We go to France with our teenagers, the weather is great, we live outside and only sleep in the van. We have an awning which really adds to the living space and go to sites with a bit more action for teens. Also we vary what we do each day to keep everyone happy. Tell yours that they dont have a choice but consider their ages when arranging the holiday...it works for us.Good luck!!
I think this happens to all of us eventually .
Let them have pup tents .( their own space )
Tell them you do everything all year for them this is your time as well . they are old enough to stay home .
Their own space should help for a bit. My brother had three children they all had their own pup tents in a row, always just managed to fit on a pitch when they went to France.