Are We Nearly There Yet?

We’ve all seen it in sitcoms or cartoons – the adults sat in the front of the car getting increasingly frazzled with irritation as the children demand loudly whether or not the journey is any closer to its destination, often punctuating their question by kicking the back of the seat in front of them. In real life it is not usually that bad. It can, however, be not a million miles from the truth. Children tend not to be as patient as adults – when you think about it, a few hours out of their life seems a lot longer to them than it does to you, because you’ve lived a couple of decades longer than they have.

Before you ever set off, make it clear to your kids exactly how long the trip is going to be. If it is upwards of a couple of hours, the chances are they aren’t going to be overjoyed by that – but it gives them time to process the “horrible truth”. It is then advantageous to have a secret “supply kit” stowed in the front of the car stocked with things that are likely to take your children’s minds off the long time that still remains on the clock for their journey. Snacks and drinks are a possibility (although if they are young kids, cover the seat with a towel or thick blanket first. Games and DVDs, if you have the necessary attachments in your car, are also good ideas. Then every time the kids get restless, produce an item that will still their mood a little. You’ll be there before you can say “Are we nearly there yet?”