When we tell people we are taking our kids to France/UK for 9 weeks, the first thing they say is "Are you serious??" The second is, "You're nuts."
We want to take our kids travelling for many reasons. Here are some:
1. Value of learning languages (esp. Chinese)
I want to visit all the Chinatowns to show Chloe she can use her Chinese everywhere in the world. I want her to see us struggle with our crappy French to understand that there is a whole world out there where people don't speak English.
2. Understand other cultures
Bring on the culture shock. Different people live differently. Our way is not necessarily the "right" way. There are things that only exist on the other side of the world.
3. Get an appreciation for history
Yes, people used to live without TV and cars.
4. Discover new interests and new perspectives
Do things we can't normally do. Maybe we'll find new interests and new perspectives
5. Slow down and smell the roses
With kids you just rush around touring. We will need to live more like the locals. We want to see the wonder of the world through a child's eyes.
