Take The Ravel Out Of Travel
Holidays usually mean seeing family and friends. For some people that
means traveling a long distance. It can become a stressful event, if
traveling with children. Here are some helpful hints to help cut down on
traveling stress.
- Have each child pack one bag (a backpack or a
school bag). Let them pack what they want, but they must be
responsible for carrying and keeping track of the contents.
- Give kids a traveling allowance that they can
spend on what they wish. Parents can give a daily allowance or one
large sum. Some parents find that subtracting an amount of money for
fighting or breaking rules can encourage good behavior.
- Make flexible seating assignments to keep peace
in the car. Separate sides by setting a suitcase, box or a bag
in-between the two children. Stop often to stretch, run around, and
play games.
- For smaller children still in car seats, put a
diaper bag or duffel bag next to the seat where the child can easily
reach it. Fill the bag with toys and books.
- Schedule times when children can amuse themselves
and other times for family interaction such as playing a game,
singing, talking, or reading aloud.
- Buy children their own maps so they can see the
path they are taking and can highlight the route.
Reprinted with permission from the
National Network for Child Care -
NNCC.
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