Not the parent, but meeting people whilst traveling doesn't have to be locals. If you go to a popular backpacker/nomad/tourist spot and stay a hostel you'll meet loads of people (that almost certainly speak English). The best part is that these people also enjoy traveling, so you have something in common.

You can take it a step further, if you stay in a surf hostel, you'll meet other people that like surfing. Replace surfing with any other activity you like (or want to learn). I think this works well, because you meet people that you have something in common with and have a similar lifestyle.