July 2001 Thinks

Archives - March 2001 Thinks

TRAVELING WITH TOTS: Getting Those Passports (Part two of three)
by Britta Wilder Ross

Now that you've decided an overseas destination is where your family is headed, your next step will be obtaining a passport. This means everybody! Instead of stressing out at this point, give yourself enough time (6 to 8 weeks) to complete this process.

1. Paperwork. You can obtain the forms you'll need over the internet (ADDRESS), government agency or check your local post office. Get more than you'll need in case of errors.

2. Photos. You can check with local photographers if they do passport photos for small children (some are not set up for this). Better yet, head down to COSTCO and have some snaps done for only (PRICE). They are kid-friendly and had little trouble capturing my drooling 16-month old on film. Plus, while
you're waiting, you can get some shopping done for your trip!

3. Filing. It's best just to head down to your government agency (check ahead exactly where and what hours) to process your photos and paperwork. Bring your checkbook as there are fees involved for both paperwork and processing, and if there is more than one passport being filed you'll need checks for each. The clerk will give you an estimated time in which you'll receive your passport through the mail. Once you receive it, put it in a safe place-where you'll remember it-and don't forget to bring it on your trip!

Again, begin this process early enough so you won't have to agonize over delivery. Spring and summer months can mean delays due to heavy volume of passports being processed, so plan accordingly.

Remember the Golden Rule of Child-rearing? Everything takes longer and nothing goes as expected. Use this rule and you can't go wrong!

NEXT INSTALLMENT: Packing for Paradise!