Things You'll Need:
- books
- imagination
- patience
- movies
- DVD player
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Step 1
Make a Plan!
It's easy to use mapquest or Google maps to plan out your trip. Make sure you know where the rest stops are, so that when you hear "I have to use the bathroom," you'll know how long you have to listen to it. Also, get the kids involved. If you use Google maps, you can easily change the path of your trip and let the kids help decide what sights you want to visit along the way. -
Step 2
Bring Distractions.
These would include snacks (not all sugary though!), books, games, DVDs and DVD player, music, audio books, etc. For the record, a DVD player that can be used in your car is worth every cent. You can get them for as little at $40.00. You'll be driving, and you may or may not have another adult in the car with you. Make sure you have enough books and entertainment strategically placed so that you don't have to stretch your body into impossible shapes to reach everything as you drive between two 18-wheelers at 75 miles per hour. Another fun idea is "driving games." For example, you can keep score of how many different state's license plates you see on the highway, and whoever spots the most gets a prize. -
Step 3
Keep Your Cool!
If you get angry or upset, the miles will only seem longer, and you could lose focus on the most important thing - getting to your destination safely. Turning around in your seat is a bad idea. Yelling at the kids through the rear view mirror is a bad idea. Just take a deep breath, remember that life is too short to sweat the small stuff, and also that driving down the interstate is not the time to feel angry. If you're calm and collected, then the kid's moods will follow suit. Listen to music, roll down the windows, sing-alongs - do whatever it takes to make the trip as fun and enjoyable as possible. Finally, you can delegate your oldest child to be your "deputy," helping you to pass out snacks, check the map, or change DVDs while you drive.
