Planning A Better Vacation With Your Teens

Popular Television host Judge Alex reveals his tips for planning a successful trip with your teens.

It’s always tough planning a vacation with your teens. You want to do one thing, they want to do another. Alex E. Ferrer, the new host of Twentieth Television’s “Judge Alex,” knows all about teen drama.

After attending University of Miami School of Law as a young police officer, Judge Alex was elected to the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, where he specialized in Family and Criminal division for the past ten years. A father of two himself, here he shares his tried-and-true tips on getting the most out of your vacation with teens.

1. While the jury is still out on your itinerary, involve your teens in planning activities so that they have a vested interest in your vacation and don't feel like they're just being dragged along.

2. During a car drive, a cheap alternative to electronics is to play a game. One of my kids' favorites is "Going on a picnic" (click on game to see how it's played). You can Google "car games" or "travel games" for other suggestions.

3. If financially possible, get two rooms, preferably connecting. That gives teens some feeling of independence from the parents but keeps them close for safety. If finances permit, allow them to bring a friend.

4. Involve your teens in activities where they are likely to meet other kids who are also on vacation, such as playing in the hotel pool or game room.

5. Don't over-stuff your itinerary. Make sure there's down time for the kids to be able to relax, go to the hotel pool and play games. You can always fill that time later if necessary.

6. When making meal plans, let your kids weigh in on the verdict.

7. Encourage your teens to keep a journal of the vacation or take their own pictures. This increases their interest and gives them a feeling of control.