General Tips for Traveling with Kids

While traveling, pay attention to the energy level of your kids. If their energy level is high, play a fast-paced game, or better yet, try to stop somewhere and let them burn off some energy.  Anything will help, even a quick stop at a rest stop to let them stretch their legs. Bring a Frisbee or a ball to play with. Or plan your lunch at a fast-food restaurant that has a playground. Twenty minutes climbing, sliding and running will do wonders for settling down a revved up child.

If your child is tired, encourage them to try a quiet activity like reading or drawing. Or better yet, set their car space up with a couple of pillows and see if they’ll take a quick nap.

Snacks can be a good idea to help kids get through a long drive without asking for a break. Avoid sugary snacks or caffeinated sodas that might cause a "sugar high," and then an energy crash. Small bottles of water let your child drink at their own pace without worrying about spills.  Goldfish crackers, fruit, raisins, trail mix, fruit rollups and granola bars are all great ideas. Don't forget to keep some wet towelettes handy!

Help keep the car clean by laying a blanket down across the back seat and over the backseat floor. At the end of each day, remove the blanket and shake it out. Also keep some paper towels handy for wiping up spills. Or bring a box of baby wipes which work great for cleaning all kinds of messes.

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