What is RSS?
We all dream of fun family vacations where all the kids get along, no one is cranky, and we create fun filled memories together. However, unless your kids are extremely compliant and well behaved (in which case, contact us so we can learn from your good fortune), the reality is that traveling with kids is very challenging.
So, since we take long road trips pretty often, here are some practical tips that we’ve learned to help keep that dream vacation from turning into a road trip nightmare.
1. Be flexible. Have a plan but don’t be afraid to make an audible at the wheel. If the kids need to exert some energy. Stop and let them run around for a bit. Type A personalities, of which I am one myself, have a difficult time with this, so decide ahead of time that you are going to roll with the punches on this one.
2. Laugh at the situation. We realize this can be hard to do when your in the middle of an 8 hour road trip and all the kids are crying, screaming, and needing something. But, the more laughter you can interject into the situation the less stressful it will become.
3. Buy a DVD player and play those movies! By the end of the trip you might be able to repeat every word to the movie Cars or a Baby Einstein movie, but it’s better than the alternative.
4. Pack snacks and toys. Don’t run out of snacks or you’ll be praying for a Wal-Mart at the next exit.
5. Make up learning games. If your child is old enough to begin learning the A, B, Cs, there’s no better time. They can’t run away and, whether they want to or not, they have to listen to you. Make it fun and reward them with something.
6. Bring surprises. Kids love surprises, so bring some and pull them out strategically along the way.
7. Make frequent stops at parks, playgrounds, etc… Again, let them burn off some energy and you might get lucky if they fall asleep.
What are some other things you do to help the time pass on a road trip with kids?
Read more Parenting Articles by PBP.
Technorati Tags: road trip with kids, parenting, children, driving with kids, traveling with kids, dvd player, playground, parenting tips