ARDA, the America Resort Development Association has put together some interesting information on their website www.vacationbetter.org that gives families yet another reason to vacation.

Recent research has shown that vacationing actually contributes to a child’s academic achievement. “Analysis of a U.S. Department of Education study found that children who travel over summer break – whether to a beach, historic site or a national park – did better in reading, math and general knowledge than their peers who didn’t vacation.”

The study looked at whether or not the child went on vacation, the places visited, and the number of days spent on the vacation. Results clearly showed a significant difference in academic achievement by vacationing children as compared to non-vacationers, although the length of the vacation didn’t seem to be as great a contributor as the fact that the vacation was taken and the child was exposed to new sights and experiences.

“The data is clear–and gives hard-working parents another reason not to put off a summer vacation trip,” said Dr. Bill Norman, Clemson University. “Providing kids with the experience of travel broadens their horizons and opens up their minds to learning.”

Howard Nusbaum, president and CEO, (ARDA) says, “This study gives families yet another strong reminder that taking vacation has benefits beyond the actual week or two of vacation.”

To read more about how your family vacation can impact your children, click here.