In the travel biz, the week immediately following New Year's is known as "dead week." Like a dried-up Christmas tree that's been kicked to the curb, travel drops off the map after the hectic holiday season. For families with schoolkids, traveling during dead week is a tough sell. They've just spent their energy and money on the holidays and the kids are just returning to school after a long holiday break. 

But for homeschoolers and families with babies and toddlers, dead week can be a sweet opportunity to snag a bargain getaway. It's a time when hotels and airlines offer super deals, and vacation spots are not only uncrowded but affordable. Here are some of the first dead week deals we've seen so far:

• Westin New York at Times Square, New York City: From January 2 to January 6, prices dip by about $200 a night compared the peak holiday period and the remainder of January. Rooms start at $233 a night during “dead week" and pop back up to $409 the following week.
• Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, St. Petersburg: From January1 to January 6, this Marriott property in Florida is offering nightly rates starting at $85, which is a 65% savings. Hurry—this one requires a seven-day advance booking. Use promo code ADP.
  
• Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa, Puerto Rico: From January 1 to January 8, rates start at $99—a savings of 42% off winter prices.  Call 800/474-6627 and mention promo code DIS88.