Traveling with Kids in the Car

As summer approaches, many families are planning road trips. Is it possible to have an enjoyable car trip with children? The answer is yes! My husband, two young daughters and I take a 12 hour car trip twice a year. With a little preparation your family can have a pleasant trip. The following four tips have been the most useful in making our car trips pleasant and memorable.

First, don't bring out the toys to soon. Many children will be happy just sitting in their car seat looking out the windows or talking during the first part of the trip. Each child is different and this time will vary from child to child. Once your child begins to get restless, bring out one or two toys to occupy your child. Bringing out the toys too soon may cause your child to lose interest in them early into your trip.

Have special toys just to use in the car. Visit the dollar section at your favorite store and pick up a few items for each child. If you use toys they play with everyday they may not be as appealing to your child as a new or seldom used toy. A toy they have not played with before or have not seen in awhile will keep them intrigued.

Thirdly, let your child have a turn at picking the music. Bring some of your child's favorite music on CD or on your Ipod. No adult wants to listen to hours of their child's favorite music. However, allowing them to pick a few songs to play will divert their attention from the long car ride. Children can also bounce their legs or clap to the music, which will use up some of their energy.

Lastly, don't be afraid to stop often. Stopping does make the trip longer. However, allowing your children to stretch their legs will keep them happier and in turn make the trip easier on everyone. Pull over at a rest stop or even a gas station for five minutes and stretch those legs. If you will be traveling over lunch, pack a picnic and stop at a park. A picnic at a park will allow you to eat lunch cheaper than at a restaurant and give your children a chance to run free and use their energy.

A family road trip is a time to enjoy one another. Take time to plan ahead. Remember, do not bring out the toys to soon, have special trip toys, listen to your child's music, and stop often. Take pleasure in your family and have a fantastic trip!