Long car journeys with kids can be a challenge, even for the most patient parents. The cries of “Are we there yet?” and the frequent rest stop requests can turn what should be an enjoyable road trip into a stressful experience. The key to a successful journey is keeping your little ones entertained and occupied. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn travel time into fun time for everyone. Here are some tried-and-tested ways to keep kids entertained on a car journey.
1. Pack a Travel Activity Bag
Creating a special bag filled with various activities can keep your kids entertained for hours. Include a mix of colouring books, crayons, stickers, small toys, and even some educational worksheets. Consider the interests of your children and pack items that will capture their attention. Rotating through these activities throughout the journey will keep things fresh and exciting.
2. Play Road Trip Games
Classic road trip games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and the licence plate game are perfect for keeping kids engaged and reducing boredom. These games are not only entertaining but also encourage observation and thinking skills. You can also get creative and come up with your own games, like counting the number of red cars you pass or spotting animals along the way.
3. Bring a Playlist of Their Favourite Songs
Music is a great way to keep the mood light and enjoyable. Create a playlist of your kids’ favourite songs, and encourage them to sing along. You can even have a mini karaoke session or a family sing-along to make the time pass more quickly. Don’t forget to include some of your favourite tunes as well—everyone deserves a bit of fun!
4. Pack Plenty of Snacks and Drinks
Hungry kids are cranky kids, so make sure to pack a variety of snacks and drinks for the journey. Choose healthy options like fruit, nuts, and granola bars, as well as a few special treats to keep them happy. Having snacks on hand can also prevent unnecessary stops and keep everyone content.
5. Watch Cartoons on an iPad or Tablet
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep kids entertained on a long car journey is by allowing them to watch their favourite cartoons for girls or shows on an iPad or tablet. Download a selection of their favourite movies or episodes before you hit the road, so you’re not reliant on an internet connection. This can keep them occupied for significant stretches of time, giving you some much-needed peace and quiet.
To make this even more enjoyable for everyone:
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Use Headphones:
Invest in a good pair of child-friendly headphones. This will allow your child to enjoy their shows without disturbing other passengers, and can even give them a sense of personal space.
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Screen Time Limits:
To prevent screen time overload, schedule breaks where they can engage in other activities, like looking out the window or playing a game.
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Tablet Holders:
Consider using a car seat tablet holder to keep the device secure and at a comfortable viewing angle.
While screen time shouldn’t be the only form of entertainment on a journey, it can be a lifesaver during those longer stretches when everyone needs a break.
6. Take Regular Breaks
Don’t forget to schedule regular breaks during the journey to allow everyone to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Plan your stops around interesting locations, like parks or scenic viewpoints, to make the breaks more enjoyable. These pit stops can also be a great opportunity for a quick family game or a picnic, adding some adventure to your journey.
7. Prepare a Surprise Bag
If your kids start to get restless, a surprise bag filled with small, inexpensive toys or treats can work wonders. You can hand out a new surprise every hour or every time you reach a milestone in the journey. The anticipation and excitement of what’s inside the bag will keep them entertained and motivated.
Final Thoughts
Keeping kids entertained on a car journey doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn travel time into a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. Whether it’s through games, snacks, or a well-timed cartoon on an iPad, finding what works best for your child will make all the difference.
Remember, the journey is part of the adventure, so take the opportunity to create special memories along the way. Happy travels!
