Quebec City, Canada
Our next family trip is scheduled in February. We are heading up to Quebec, Canada to go skiing with relatives. I have been to Old Quebec City before and it is full of history and faith. In the city stands a cathedral, Notre-Dame Basilica Cathedral, that is known for it's healing powers. As you enter the church, the inner arches are adorned with the crutches and braces of those who believe they were healed by God. My husband's family is French Canadian and very Catholic. We took a trip up there after my father-in-law had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. He wanted to see this cathedral once again before he passed. I don't quite have the faith that they do but my father-in-law is alive and cancer free after 10 years now. I think my kids would learn a lot about the power of faith and the importance of religion to their father and his family!
On the grounds of the cathedral are the stations of the cross. My children attend religious classes each week but lack the connection of their lessons to history. By visiting the cathedral and walking the stations of the cross they may gain a greater respect for their religion and the difficulties people in history endured for their faith.
San Francisco, California
I have also been to San Francisco before. My good friend is a psychology professor at the University of San Francisco. When I visited her last, I was awakened by an earthquake (an unforgettable experience). I don't wish this on my children but would love for them to take a trip there. So many opportunities to learn! I really want to visit Alcatraz prison with them. I was always fascinated with the criminal mind as a young adult (the reason I pursued criminal justice/psychology as an undergraduate). Alcatraz is full of history regarding the United States penal system and some notorious prisoners.
Other areas to explore in the San Fransco Bay area include Fisherman's Wharf, Napa Valley, and Golden Gate Park. There is so much to learn!
New York City
My kids grew up in the age of 9/11. I saved the newspapers from that day (they were infants at the time) so that they could have an appreciation of the magnitude of the event. Recently, the anniversary of that horrific act occurred and the boys had many questions. We talked a lot about terrorism, hatred and the importance of tolerance. I think visiting ground zero would bring it all together for them and allow them to pay respect to the numerous families that were impacted by this tragedy.
And of course, while in NYC we would see the Statue of Liberty. A visit to Lady Liberty would complement our trip to the 9/11 memorial. The kids would learn first hand about the giant melting pot in which we live and honoring immigrants from all over the world.
The United States has so many places where learning can occur. Take the opportunity to experience as much of life with your family as you can!
