Preparing Kids for the Road Ahead
Your family vacation is right around the corner and you cannot wait to hit the open road. The only problem is the kids. They cannot seem to make it 10 miles down the road without fidgeting and fussing about getting out. You’re just not sure how they are going to fare on a long ride and you aren’t so sure how you’ll hold up either.
This is a common quandary that can be solved for the most part with a little advanced planning. The better you prepare your children for what’s to come, the more likely it is you will all have some fun on the road. These tips can help:
Take a shorter drive to get them used to the idea - If your baby, toddler or even older children have only driven around town, they will be in for a huge shock when they are restrained for hours on end for a long trip. To ease them into the idea, take a trial, shorter-term trip. This will help them get used to longer car rides and it can start clueing you into what you might need to help occupy their time. You don’t have to plan anything elaborate here. Visit a friend who lives a few hours away on a weekend or go see a nearby curiosity that you have been wanting to see for a day trip.
Show them on the map - If your children are old enough to understand a basic map, show them where you are going. Explain how long it will take. Point out landmarks on the map that will show them they are getting closer to the destination. When you are on the trip, point out those landmarks and remind them of what comes next.
Keep them busy - Be sure to pack toys, games and even books to occupy their time. Portable DVD players can also come in handy.
Resign yourself to some grumbling - While family road trips go off without a hitch on television, the real world just doesn’t operate that way. Prepare yourself for a little whining and have some tactics ready to cope.
While road trips can take some adjustment time for the kids, you can make it to your destination with your sanity intact. Just plan ahead, prepare the kids as best as possible and think on your feet to keep the atmosphere in the car pleasant. Not every minute will be a picnic, but you can ensure the ride is as enjoyable as possible.