Packing up the car and heading to Grandma’s house or a vacation spot for spring break? Here are a few ideas to help make travel time more fun for your little one…and less wearing for Mom and Dad:
1) Timing is everything. If your baby or toddler doesn’t mind sleeping in her car seat, plan to hit the road about an hour before naptime. Be sure to bring her special blanket or snuggle toy. Of course, if your child doesn’t sleep well in the car, try to leave shortly after she wakes up in the morning or right after a good nap. A well-rested baby is a happy baby!
2) Along with bringing a few of your child’s favorite toys, books, and snacks, stash a couple of new toys in your bag of tricks! If you can tell that your child is getting restless or may be on the brink of a meltdown, a new rattle or small musical toy will be a helpful mood booster. (Toys that link onto the car seat are also a plus!)
3) Sing! Sing! Sing! It wouldn’t be a road trip without a few rounds of Row, Row, Row Your Boat! Have a family sing along or pop in a CD of toddler tunes. Clap your hands, roll your arms, and “car dance” along to the beat.
4) Be flexible and take breaks. It’s tough for little ones to be strapped into their car seats when they are used to being on the go. Make sure to stop and let them stretch their legs. Restaurant play areas are great places to let kiddos run around safely. (It's also a good idea to wash hands after playing on the equipment.)
5) If all else fails, break out the bubbles! Keep a party favor-sized bottle in your glove compartment for easy access to diffuse a major meltdown. Your toddler will be so surprised to see those bubbles floating his way, it should help to entertain him for a bit…or at least until you make it to the next rest stop!
*How do you make long road trips more
