How often do you and your family go on a vacation? If you don’t remember the last time, you might want to consider booking one. Why you ask? Because not only are trips fun, but they’re good for the development of your children.

According to a study published in the Journal Commercial of Research, family trips have been proven to have a profound and long-lasting impact on how happy kids are. Recent studies show that giving gifts of experience are much better for a child than material gifts.

So what does that mean? Gifts for outings and vacations instead of toys or objects are better for the growth of a child’s brain. Doing new activities and going new places helps the part of a child’s brain that handles stress management to develop better.

Studies show that kids that go on vacations during the summer break score higher on reading, math, and general knowledge than kids who don’t travel. It doesn’t matter where they go, they just need to travel. Researchers also believe that these trips benefit children long term by providing memories that can last a lifetime. Many adults studied reported that family vacations were some of their best memories.

Vacations are also beneficial before they occur too because it gives kids something to look forward to and can be a bonding experience if they get to be part of the planning. These trips or outings can also be a good way to teach kids about financial planning, saving money, and budgeting for things like souvenirs on the trip.

It isn’t just the kids that benefit either. Studies show that parents are also much happier giving experience gifts rather than material items. So instead of saving up for more toys next year, start pinching pennies for a trip to a new place.

Besides, it can be really fun to surprise your kids with a vacation. Check out this video below as parents share with their children that they’re getting a trip to Disney and watch their reactions.