DESPITE schools often warning parents against taking their kids on holiday during school time, some psychologists have said this could be more harmful for them.
Experts have explained that it is beneficial for parents to take their young ones abroad outside of the school holidays, as it offers them a much better experience and they can learn more.
Clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly told Travel + Leisure: “As a clinical psychologist, parent, former teacher and former school counselor, I absolutely believe that there can be substantial benefits to pulling children out of school for travel.
"Since travel is more affordable – and thus more accessible – to families while school is in session, parents are able to take children to places that couldn’t afford otherwise.
"And, the quality of travel during less impacted times can also make the experience far more relaxing and powerful for both the parents and children.
"And, when families are relaxed, the overall travel experience can be far more positive.”
Even if your kids are struggling at school, experts say it can be good to expose them to travel as it offers other mental benefits.
Professor Dr. Nicole Avena said it was "all the more reason to expose them to travel," explaining: "Academics are important, but being emotionally intelligent is a better predictor of success in life.
"Learning about new places and people helps with empathy.”
And it could even be educational in its own way, experts have said, from learning local languages to learning about conservation at the beach.
However, parents should be cautious if deciding to take a long trip abroad during school time, with many schools issuing fines or warnings to families who break the rules.
Some schools are also more likely to allow parents time off during the school term if their kids are doing well academically or have 100 per cent attendance.
According to the government website: "You have to get permission from the head teacher if you want to take your child out of school during term time.
"It’s up to the head teacher how many days your child can be away from school if leave is granted."
Families who don't ask permission or are not given it, face fines if they take their kids anyway.
SCHOOL'S OUT
Fines can be up to £120, although this drops to £60 if paid within 21 days.
Yet some parents say holidays are so much cheaper outside of the school holidays, so often opt to pay the fine instead.
Here is everything you need to know about taking your kids on holiday during school time.
One mum took her six-year-old out of primary school for two years to go on holiday and said he learnt more from their epic journey than he ever could in a classroom.
Meanwhile others mums have complained as one slammed a primary school for refusing to let her take her daughter on a "once in a lifetime" holiday during term time.
Plus another was told she couldn't take her son out of school for their last ever holiday together because it was not "exceptional circumstances".
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