They say that it's not about the destination, but the journey - obviously whoever "they" are, they weren't talking about a big car trip with kids!
While the thought of being on the road for long periods of time with small children may seem daunting, family trips like this are a great way to spend quality time together and build lasting, positive memories. The key is being able to plan ahead for ways to keep the kids entertained along the way.
Preventing problems with kids in the car
Being cooped up in the back seat of a car for hours can be boring for our energetic kids - they may start to feel antsy and claustrophobic by having to sit still for such a long period of time. This can take the fun and excitement out of a family road trip for them, making new adventures something to dread instead of something to look forward to. And if your kids are prone to tantrums? The tight quarters can quickly take away your enjoyment of the vacation as well.
"Be sure to factor in time for breaks from driving."
The best way to prevent these problems is to eliminate the conditions that can lead to them. When you're planning your route, be sure to factor in time for breaks from driving. You'll need to stop more frequently with kids in the car than if you were driving by yourself. Reader's Digest suggested stopping every two hours for a break to allow everyone to get out and stretch their legs. Some rest stops have grassy play areas that can allow your kids to run around for a bit, helping to spend some of their energy.
Canadian Family recommended that parents include kids in some of the travel planning. Look up a few places you may be able to stop at along the way and ask your kiddos which option sounds best to them. By letting them have a little control over where they go, they're more likely to feel excited about what you're doing and will keep a more positive mindset.
It's also important that you remain positive and enthusiastic about the trip as well. Perhaps you're not looking forward to being in the car for that long, either - it will still help your children if you speak highly of the trip and focus on all of the great things you'll get to do on the way and once you reach your destination. They take their cues from you, so if they can tell you don't want to be in the car, they'll assume they shouldn't want to be there, either.
Allow your kids to help pick some of your stops along the way to keep them excited about the trip.
Ways to stay entertained on the road
Kids tend to be pretty creative about finding their own fun under all kinds of circumstances, but it will still help your trip go smoother if you come prepared with some games and activities for them. While you can load up your tablet or smartphone with videos and games, travel author Michael Palmer, has stressed the importance of limiting screen time in the car. Speaking to CTV News, Palmer recommended capping electronic use at 45 minutes a day.
"We're trying to engage them with the outside world so they aren't just plugged into screens all the time," he said.
There are a number of ways to keep your kids occupied without relying on these gadgets. Classics like colouring books and travel-sized board games are always easy to turn to for fun ways to pass the time. You can also play car games, like "I Spy," 20 questions and the license plate game.
You could also go out and pick up new activities specifically for the trip, like trivia cards tailored to different age levels, which can help the time go by and provide great learning opportunities for your children as well. The Huffington Post suggested printing out a scavenger hunt list a head of time and staying on the look out for items you pass by.
Don't underestimate the value of just talking, either. Take this time to share stories with your little ones and learn more about their interests and ideas. It can be a great bonding experience for the whole family.
Whatever you decide to do to pass the time, be sure to stay flexible. Planning is great, but don't schedule so much that you don't have room for spontaneous changes. Focus on the positive aspects of travelling together and make great memories to last you lifetimes.