Mom-Approved Ways to Make Your Time on the Road Shorter
Taking long road trips can be taxing on adults as well as kids. For little ones, they may find riding in the car boring, or may easily become cranky having to sit for so long. There are several activities kids can take part in along the way, and keeping them occupied keeps parents happy as well. These are just a few mom-approved ideas to help your next road trip go by a little smoother.
Games
Most people remember to bring along board games, puzzles, or word searches to pass the time while on road trips. But don’t forget, educational games help entertain children with the added benefit of learning, and parents can take part as well. Adult passengers can assist children with games and puzzles to keep themselves entertained as well. You might even use the homework they’re working on for inspiration for games and activities to increase their knowledge.
Movies
All kids love a fun movie, and today’s children expect constant entertainment. Few have the patience to sit in one spot for hours, so it may be wise to bring along their favorite DVDs. They can watch movies in the back seat while parents focus on the road or their own activities. It can even help with trying to get younger ones down for a nap.
I Spy
If parents want to avoid extra cargo, or plan to keep their kids off of electronic devices, playing games based on surroundings can be fun as well. Kids and parents can take turns looking for certain elements or sites and count what they find in the passing scenery. (For example: counting distance signs or houses of a certain color). This may encourage them to appreciate the area they visit, while taking their minds off of the long ride.
Comfort
Parents should be relaxed as well while the kids are kept entertained. There may not be much room to stretch out or recline in a vehicle, but durable neck pillows help keep strain off of the neck and facilitate rest and keep the stress and strain of the trip from building.
Books
School-aged children may take well to having reading material to get through long car rides. Parents can bring books along as well. For children that are too young to read, parents can read them their favorite books during the trip. Keep a small bin or bag handy so they don’t get strewn all over the floor of the car.
Snacks
Children often get cranky when they don’t have enough energy, and their growing bodies need constant nutrition. Bringing snacks along helps overcome the irritation of hunger while keeping them energized even without being able to get up and play. Make sure they get enough water, without you having to pull over every mile or so, and space out snacks between meals so you aren’t constantly eating.
With all activities, make sure they are done quietly to keep the ride safe. Few lawyers would be able to help should you be at fault for a vehicle accident due to a self-distracted driver. Make sure your car is safe to drive and that everything is filled an ready to go. For more information on safe driving go to http://www.ladahlaw.com/nevada/car-accident-lawyer. Find out what activities your kids prefer to make sure they enjoy whatever you bring along. Soon you’ll be ready for the trip of a lifetime.