Can you honestly say it’s a pleasurable experience taking the little ones out in the “family car” for an outing at the weekends? More often than not we have just cleared the end of the our road when the familiar question comes loud and clear from the back seat of the car “Are we nearly there yet?”
We tend to stop off quite regularly to let the children stretch their legs and have a little run around, but sometimes this just is’nt really viable and that’s when we have to turn to plan B.
Generally we muddle through, but here are a few tips for surviving car travel with kids.
One: Always try to allow plenty of time for stops. Maybe 2 hours of car time, then a break, this seems a good idea with youngsters.
Two: Prior to the journey let them get a special backpack or bag together with crayons, books, toys, activity sets, stickers, handheld games and maybe even including some new wrapped surprises for little kids.
Three: Small board games can be a good investment. A tray would be helpful for this or just something to place the game on. If these games are just kept for the car journeys they will probably not become bored with them.
Four: Bring plenty of snacks, such as fruit, crackers, juice packs, and treats, also an insulated bag for cold drinks would be a great idea, especially in hot weather. Plastic cups, elastoplasts and a towel, will more than likely come in handy. For the “pit stops” a frisbee and ball for a little play around is a good way to expend some energy and one thing which is a must is of course baby wipes no matter how old your kids are.
Five: Stories on audiobooks can make the miles fly by. Maybe even play a story for the whole family on the car stereo, or if possible bring individual players for your kids. Ensure you visit your local library to stock up on stories beforehand.
Six: Stop off at Burger King or MacDonalds and whilst Mum and Dad get a much needed snack or bite to eat the children can have a break in the playrooms. Or just let the kids burn off energy while you order their food “to eat out” later in the car.
Seven: The promise of a picnic is always a winner. The children can let off steam and you save money on food!
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