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The most popular family vehicles these days are the minivan and suv. They offer room for all the stuff that goes along with family outings. But even with the extra space, you may dread a family car trip, especially if you have more than one child. Arguing, complaining, and whining often seem to be the norm rather than the exception when riding with kids. But there are some things you can do to ease the stress level on these trips. You can’t get them to behave like perfect angels, but you can set the stage for a little more peace and quiet.
Pack and prepare strategically for trips with the kids. Pack things you won’t need during the trip up on the roof rack, or in the bottom of the cargo area. Keep the kids seating area free of suitcases or other bags they won’t need access to, or maybe more importantly things you may not want them to have access to. The more elbow (and knee and foot) room a child has, the less cries of being squished you will have to hear.
But one thing that should take up space near each child is an individual backpack, bag or even a plastic bin. Before the trip, have each of your kids pick out some things to put in their bag. Favorite toys, books, hand held games are all good distractions. For younger kids the lap size magnetic or dry erase boards and coloring books are great companions. Make sure no one is packing things that won’t travel well like gerbils, jars of bubble stuff, or ice cream sandwiches.
For the eventual boredom that will come when your children have made their way through everything in their respective bag or box, you need to have something new and exciting on hand. A short trip to the dollar store beforehand is the answer. Buy just a few items for each child, in equal number of course. Then as restlessness sets in, pass out an item or two. Make sure you take enough time between the treasures to get maximum time value.
Individually packed snacks are a good idea too. Boredom is always followed by hunger and a little treat can prevent that extra food stop. Be sure the kids have a small trash bag within easy reach so things don’t get too messy. You may even want to mention that you won’t pass out another goody until you see a tidy area, free of trash and clutter.
For really long trips, prepare the kids by showing them maps and talking about points of interest along the route. Preparation for the kids, and with the kids will go a long way toward a more relaxing trip. And when your travel is over, make note of what really worked and what didn’t. That way you’ll be better prepared for smooth sailing the next time around. So brainstorm and plan for the travel time as well as the vacation time. Remember the saying, “Getting there is half the fun!”
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