The idea of getting away from it all is so exciting, you’ve all probably been counting down the days! But for many parents whose little ones struggle to manage long car journeys, it can feel like one last, huge obstacle to overcome before you can properly enjoy your family time.
Being the passenger in a long car journey is just about manageable for us grownups but imagine been strapped tightly into a car seat for hours on end, being frightened by the loud thunderous rumble of lorries and wagons going by on the motorway and wondering why everyone is so stressed…it’s hardly surprising that little ones struggle!
But don’t worry. The beginning of your holiday doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. I’ve put together a small collection of tips you can try to keep your children calm and content whilst you’re travelling.
Try a little colouring
Did you know that colouring actually has similar benefits to meditation? It’s true! The concentration also works as a stress reliever and it’s the perfect way to keep your little ones occupied. Print off some colouring pages – Printerinks.com have a large range of cheap ink cartridges, including re-manufactured inks – or bring along some colouring books, fill a pencil case with pens and crayons and let them get creative.
Be realistic
The sat nav says the journey will be 4 hours and 25 minutes, but your partner reckons they can shave at least ten minutes off that with some efficient driving…sound familiar? When you’re travelling with little ones you need to be stopping at least every hour for everyone to go to the loo, stretch their legs and kerb their boredom. Trying to do the journey in one leg just isn’t realistic. So try to make breaking up the journey and regular stops part of the journey rather than an inconvenience and a delay. It’ll keep everyone’s stress levels in check.
Don’t be afraid of tech
At home you might be super conscious of how much screen time your kids should have. However when you’re travelling it’s best to relax these guidelines a little. If it’ll make you feel better, download some more educational games for your child to enjoy. If you have more than one child and sharing the tablet seems completely unrealistic then consider purchasing an over headrest holder for it so they can all watch a movie together.
Snacks!
Every car journey needs snacks. So plan and pack yours well in advance. Letting your kids help you pack a lunchbox for them is the perfect way to get them involved and excited about the journey. I usually pack some sensible, savoury items that will stop any hunger pangs in their tracks and then usually spoil them with something that I don’t normally buy – like a certain biscuit brand or some jelly sweets. Keep it good balance of both healthy snacks and treats. I also keep an extra bag filled with crackers, breadsticks and simple things with me just in case
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