With the summer holidays almost here, many of us are looking forward to our summer getaways, days out with the little ones and making lots of happy memories in the sunshine.
However, did you know that many parents positively dread the travelling aspect of their family holiday? The idea of getting stuck in traffic for hours on end, the children fighting in the back seat, wriggling in their car seats, moaning that they’re bored, I can feel my blood pressure rising at the very thought of it! If financial concerns and money worries are also adding to your stress levels then don’t worry seek out a little advice from Carrington Dean and see how they can help with your money worries.
So, if you’re someone that finds travelling with the little ones stressful, then don’t worry, there are plenty of ways you can keep them distracted and content in the car.
Don’t believe me? Read on for 5 ways to keep your little ones happy in the backseat.
Allow a little extra time
When you’re heading off on holiday, its natural to want to get there as quickly as possible. After all, this is your time free time and you want to make the most of it. But racing to get to your destination can often mean avoiding breaks and of course, added stress. The simplest piece of advice I can give you is to take your time. Plan a route with regular stops and let the kids stretch their legs. Throw a picnic into the mix – give the kids something to look forward to during the journey. Just be patient and begin your holiday on the right foot.
Pack snacks
I’m sure you’re aware that a hungry toddler or small child is a force to be reckoned with. So make sure you bring plenty of food along for the ride. I like to create a packed lunch for my little ones, and I let them help. It makes them feel included and excited about the journey. I also bring an extra bag of snacks for the kids to eat before and after lunch to keep those hunger pangs at bay. Cereal bars, crackers, fruit, vegetable sticks are ideal.
A travel playlist
Before you travel, create a travel playlist – again get the kids involved – and fill it with lots of party songs, nursery rhymes and songs everyone can sing along to! It’ll be more like a karaoke party than a road trip!
An audio book
This requires planning before you travel. Let the kids choose a short story each to play in the car. You’ll be amazed how quiet everyone becomes when the narrator begins.
An activity pack
Sometimes the simplest of things entertain for the longest. Colouring pages, pencils, playdoh, small toys, activity sheets and a sticker book. I often find a pencil and a writing pad can keep them occupied for ages! Ask them to draw a picture of what they’re looking forward to the most. Or write down a story.
