Are you hitting the road this summer? Before your kids can say, "Are we there yet?" here are some sanity-saving tips to make your car ride more enjoyable (and less stressful) for everyone.
Prepare A Boredom Bag
Take a hanging cosmetic case that's specifically designed for travel. You can find these anywhere, from Walmart to your local drug store. Fill each pocket with age-appropriate activities for your kid and hang it from the seat back in front of him or her. You can include electronic, hand-held games, books on tape, self-contained craft kits and travel-size versions of card and board games. Another life-saver: stash a cookie sheet in the car. It makes a great tabletop for coloring, snacking and using those craft kits. Some kids can read in the car, but beware. Those who can't, or are trying it for the first time, might need some anti-nausea medication--and a new activity--to get them through the trip.
Make Technology Your Friend
Portable DVD Players are a great way to keep kids entertained on a long car trip. You may want to consider earphones so the kids can hear better and so they won't disturb those who are listening to other things or just enjoying the silence. Some cell phones can provide directions and even GPS, but they may also have applications and games that will keep your kids busy.
Be Realistic
Many people think they can easily wake their kids at the crack of dawn and load them into the car in their jammies, thinking that they'll sleep most of the way. This rarely actually happens. Cranky and sleep-deprived kids will not get the day off to a good start. Leaving early can be a good idea, but be reasonable and remember that most accidents happen when people are fatigued, and mom and dad are more likely to bicker when they're tired. Do your best to incorporate the actual travel time into your vacation plans. Use the internet to find parks and rest areas along your route where everyone can have time to run around, stretch their legs and enjoy a snack or a picnic lunch.
