Road
trips are a fun way to show your kids the country, but it can be a
hassle having them in the car for that long. Try some of these tips to
keep your children happy.
The winter is almost over, and spring
break is upon us. If you’re thinking about taking your family for a fun
vacation this spring or summer, consider a road trip. Road trips are
great for children because they’ll see more of our great country than
they would in a plane. It’s also fun to stop at different landmarks on
the way, not only to see the great stuff our country has to offer, but
also to stretch your legs and stop and smell the roses. Family time is
irreplaceable, so take your time getting to where you’re going. However,
with any long trip, there is a chance that kids might get restless. If
you travel prepared, though, you’ll have a happy trip.
Road Games
There
is a huge variety of games, kids can play while on the road. From
trying to find license plates from each state, to singing road trip
songs, these classic games can be played with little to no money. If you
visit your local bookstore, you can find a section of books that have
all of these games in them already. However, if you don’t want to spend
the money on these books, you can create them yourself. Find pictures of
license plates from different states and collect them together for your
kids to see, before they hit the road. You can also grab a CD from your
local library that has all the sing-along songs on it for you to enjoy.
Books
For
the bookworm in your family, head to your library or bookstore and
stock up on books they have always wanted to read. If your kids can read
without getting car sick, it’s a great time to practice reading skills
and catch up on books they’re excited about. Make sure these are books
for fun; let them pick out whatever they want. It is vacation, after
all!
Technology
If you’re OK letting your kids use
technology on family vacations, let them bring along portable DVD
players or game centers. This can keep them occupied and not fighting
for hours. However, put a time limit on any technology they use. Nothing
is more annoying than trying to talk to your kids, while they are busy
texting on their phones or playing games. Maybe allow them to use the
technology between certain stops, but no more. Also, be sure you have a
rule that, during meals, they cannot use their devices. Family vacation
time is time for the family to spend together, not on their separate
devices.
Food
Food is the best way to keep kids happy.
Children often get hungry before adults do, so keeping several options
for snacks on hand can help, keep your kids calm and full. This can also
help you save money while on the road by making it, so you don’t have
to stop at rest stops or restaurants, where you’re sure to spend a lot
of money.
Sleepy Time
Vacations are time to rest up, so
let your kids sleep during the car ride if they are able. Bring along
pillows and blankets and even some favorite stuffed animals and calming
music and let them cuddle up in the back seat - as long as they are
still wearing their seat belts, of course! This will not only keep them
quiet, but also prevent them from getting crabby due to exhaustion.
