Are kids real vacation deciders?

So conventional wisdom is wrong: It’s not usually mom who makes the decisions about vacations. It’s kids calling the shots.

The “Yes Effect Survey” found that almost two thirds of moms say “yes” to their kids more often while on vacation.

The survey conducted by Synovate was commissioned by the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. It polled hundreds of moms and kids across the country to delve into the power of “yes,” uncovering what moms say “yes” to on vacation as compared to topics kids typically get a “no” response to at home.

“Moms also meet some requests with reluctance,” says the survey.

Moms shared that they hesitantly say “yes” to their kids on vacation to certain activities including: staying longer at a venue or attraction (64%); swimming in the pool (44%); riding a roller coaster or another ride (37%); and volunteering for a show or activity (21%).

The most popular requests to receive the positive response include: staying up late (80%); money, so the kids can buy something of their own (61%); eating candy, cookies, ice cream or dessert (49%); more play time (44%); and sleeping in (43%).

“A vacation should be a time when moms relax the rules and give in a little more,” said Emily Kaufman, a noted expert on family travel.

Moms’ top reasons for taking their children on vacation included: to provide new experiences (79%); to relax and have fun (66%); to get away from the stress of work, school and home (63%); and to spend one-on-one time with them (44%).

Perhaps not surprising, moms and kids both chose Orlando (56% each) as the vacation destination they would most like to visit followed by a cruise (14% each), and the beach (11% each).

Report by David Wilkening