For many families with young children, the holiday season means facing the challenge of holiday travel with cooped-up kiddos. No matter how far your destination, being prepared is essential to pulling off a happy journey with a carful of little ones. Consider the following tips for a safe, comfortable, and dare-we-say-it fun time on the road or in the sky.
Tips for Holiday Travel with Young Kids
1. Depart Calmly
Get everything ready before it’s time to leave so no one feels rushed. Start preparing everyone a few days before leaving and discuss expectations so everyone understands their role. Get laundry caught up and slowly start packing a day or two in advance. On departure day you’ll be able to leave with time to spare and without stress.
2. Leave with Extra Time
You never know how many potty breaks you might need with kids in the car. Give yourself extra travel time for pit stops along the way and you won’t have to worry about being late.
3. Bring Snacks
Everyone’s happier on a full stomach. Pack a cooler of healthy snacks and a few not-so-healthy treats as an added travel reward. Don’t forget your child’s favorite toy or stuffed animal. Having something to play with can distract them from the long ride.
4. Engage with Your Children
Enough praise can’t be uttered about the portable DVD player, but it’s important that you engage with your kids, too. Play car games, sing along to their favorite songs, and bring a Frisbee or other active toy for rest stops. Road trips can be a great opportunity for quality bonding time.
5. Schedule Breaks
With kids in the car, you’re going to need to stop — probably a lot more than you’d expect. In addition to quick pit-stops, scheduling a few fun places to visit along the way will make your journey seem shorter and like part of the vacation.
Early Childhood Education, Care, and Enrichment
At Creative Corner Child Care, we provide a safe, nurturing environment for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. To learn more about our childcare and preschool programs, we welcome you to contact us or schedule a visit today. For more information, call us at (615) 581-0157!
