Kids in the Car, Getting Ready

We have extended family that lives up to 8 hours away, so car trips have become necessary.  Here are a few ideas that have made it easier for our family.

• Create an 'Activity Bin' between or beside the car seats.  This could include-
• Large zip-top bag of crayons and markers.
• Coloring and activity books.
• Picture and reading books.
• A zip-top bag of stickers. (I just include an assortment of leftovers from our craft stuff.)
• A zip-top bag of small figures and toys.
• A few soft and cuddly stuffed animals.
• One nice drink cup for each child, that is spill-proof, easy for them to use, and preferably has a large mouth for filling. (Much easier to stock with ice at each stop.)
• Media that could keep your child entertained, in our house that includes-
• Ipad
• Portable DVD player and movies
• Small and soft blanket for covering up.
• Snacks
•  Here are some of my children's favorites-
• Whole grain gold fish are great.
• Dried Fruit
• Trail Mix
• Granola Bars
• Cheerios
• Kept upfront for the parents to hand out for good behavior, we do something a little more treat-like.
• M&M's
• Dum Dum suckers
• A small purchase at a gas station also feels like a huge treat for our kids, and they might get to split some licorice or other candy.

Another thing we have done lately is to bring a few books on CD and play them during the periods when everyone is more quiet or tiring from their activities.  Most of all, patience and a sense of humor help to preserve any parent's sanity.