This is actually for my sister, but since you all always seem to have some great ideas, I thought I would tap into your support system. My sister is scheduled to take a vacation to PA over the summer - it will be about a 20 some odd hour trip - obviously they will stop for the night along the way breaking it up over 2 days, but she is freaking out about how her son will handle the trip. He just turned 2 & is super good - but being strapped into the car seat & having a meltdown is every parent's nightmare trip. I've taken basicaly the same trip when each of my girls were younger, but that was years ago & memory fades of exactly how we coped. I know we tried to go as early as possible so they could still sleep for a good portion of the first part of the trip. I brought snacks, had the DVD player for videos, crayons & coloring books. I told her all this already, but anything else you can think of or have done yourselves would be awesome. I am open to any ideas to present to her. I also realize they will have to make frequent stops for lots of leg stretching & running around time. Thanks so much in advance!!!
Here are some tips to survive the road trip!
http://www.bigbluetrunk.com/ourcorner/689
Start the road trip either very early when it's still dark out and later in the evening. I've taken road trips with my 3 and yes, a child does get stir-crazy in a car seat. It happens and instead of allowing yourself to get brought into it, it's always best to find a rest stop, restaurant, maybe plan on some short field trip along the way to stop at and let the little one run around and burn off some energy. Snacks, drinks, music and you said a DVD should all be very helpful but please don't expect the child to sit enjoying his (or her) ride for hours at a time. They need to run and stretch those little legs. When we stopped for fuel, that is when we often let them run around for 10 minutes.
If there is more than one driver, I suggest having one of them sit in the back with him when he starts fussing. Sit with him and do what would be done at home with playing and just being with him. If she is going to the only one driving, I suggest stuffed animals, toys and CD's to play and sing along with him. Definately, talk to him about what they are seeing as they drive, make it a game and make sure he can see out of the window well. Other than that, the snacks, DVD player is a must.
We did a lot of singing when we were traveling. I made trips straight through from MI to FL and FL to MI for years with my two girls. They were 4 & 6 when we started the trips. Sounds to me like you pretty much covered everything with you Sister. She needs to relax, if she is stressed the child will be. It doesn't take much to entertain a child while traveling. There are lots of things for them to look at out the windows. Also, at the motel have her make sure to ask if they have a crib before they pay. Some do and some don't. But the main thing is for her to relax...
Hi, she can also read to him, play the cloud game, looking for shapes ect in the clouds! Music for him to swing to while sitting! I hope that they have a great trip! The most one on one things she can do, will help him pass the day!!! Music helps a lot! Also counting certain car colors helps teach him and can be a fun game too! Good luck & God bless you all...
Kathy N.
