January 8, 2024
Finding What Works for Us at The Wisconsin Dells
We have a unique family. At least I think we do.
We have a teen and a tween and a little and a toddler and a super social dad and a tired mom.
We have four that like to go and do and one that needs a little more encouragement.
We have four that are extremely social and two that prefer the comforts of home. And we have autism too. Which means some things just aren’t possible right now. Like flying in an airplane. Or long car rides. And sitting and being quiet is a no.
So, when it comes to family vacation…it feels like a puzzle sometimes.
How do we do fun things…as a family?
How do we give our kids experiences that they will enjoy?
How do we make memories?
For us…it’s truly the Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort in the Wisconsin Dells.
It works for each member of our family because they have such a variety of things to offer.
We have a wave pool and sensory fun for our oldest. And then a quiet cabana when he needs a break.
We have wild water slides (AKA The Hurricane!), arcades, and a ropes course for our tween. Plus a room with bunk beds for him to hook up his Xbox.
The same goes for our five-year-old since he is basically his brother’s shadow but he also still loves the kiddie pools.
And our toddler…she’s all in for family fun.
My advice as a mom of a unique family…find a place that works for your family. It’s out there. And yes, our vacations look a little different than what I imagined. And that’s ok to admit.
Go. Try. Make the memories. And enjoy each other.
My biggest tips include:
- Find a place that offers a variety of experiences since not every member of your family enjoys the same activities.
- Choose the distance you want to travel and find a place within that.
- Bring someone to help. It could be a grandparent, a cousin, or a babysitter. In our world, Cooper often needs to leave a ‘place’ early while the other kids are just getting started. Dividing and conquering makes a big difference in sanity and joy.
- Get the cabana. Now I know cabanas cost extra but for our family it is 100% worth the splurge. Cooper will swim and then relax in a the quiet, air conditioned, cozy cabana. He will change out of his swimsuit, rest on the couch, eat his snacks, and what his iPad. It was a game changer.
- Start with just a few nights. Trust me on this. Our motto is always…it was good until it wasn’t.
- Ask for accommodations. I share about autism and ask for help when we need it.
For our family, and I know many of yours, navigating the challenges can make family trips a no. Start small. And keep trying.
We had the absolute best time at the Wilderness! And we will be back!
Learn more about The Wilderness here: https://www.wildernessresort.com
