How to keep the kids entertained on a road trip
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If you have had family road trips, you will know how tough it is to keep children entertained on the road. The relentless ‘Are we almost there’” question could test the most fun-loving parents. Kids love to think out of the box, and confining them to a few hours on the road can really test their patience, as well as yours.
Here are 4 methods that can help you make the next road trip a fun experience for every member of the family:
1. Create an art kit
Children usually love to draw and be creative, so anything that involves colour pencils and paper is a huge winner. To create this kit, you just need a DVD cover, cut a piece of paper to fit into the left side of the case. On the right side of the case, you can place all the colouring equipment with a rubber band. You can also create a jewellery making kit, with beads and strings. Don’t forget to make it fun, use coloured paper and get stickers, however, stay away from anything that can make too much of a mess in your car.
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2. Hourly gifts and treats
Wrapping up gifts to give by the hour, helps entertain them and gives them something to look forward to by the hour. You can also use it as a time indicator. For instance, if you have five gifts, this helps them estimate the length of the trip without having to explain too often. This can also make a beautiful visual story for your road trips snaps. Nothing too expensive needs to be presented, little toys, action figures, comic books, a chocolate bar or a cheap barbie doll etc.
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3. A car charger and Apps
Tablets loaded with your kids favourite Apps is guaranteed to keep your kids entertained. You can keep it educational with Apps as well as e-books. The great thing is that most apps can now be used offline if data is a huge concern…so don’t forget your car charger.
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4. Comfort goes a long way
It’s important to note an infant must be placed in a safe, rear-facing car seat. Having a parent or an older sibling next to the baby is a good idea because sometimes having someone to look at, is enough to help from restlessness. Making sure there are sunscreens for the windows, and lots of liquid to keep them hydrated. Food packed neatly in a cooler box will make sure food isn’t a dull experience, no more sloppy tomato or hot bread. You could even ask them to draw up their own menu, to avoid complaints.
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Don’t forget to make the holidays a special treat for your loved ones, the true adventure is spending time with those we love - no matter how messy your car may get!