How to Have Fun at Rest Stops

It is important to have fun at rest stops with your kids so the rest of your trip will go more smoothly! And movement is essential! The kids have probably been restrained for hours and they need to get up and run. I always pack a bag of surprises to help us have fun at rest stops.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• little squirt guns
• jump ropes

1. 
   Are we lost?

   Pack a bag of surprises. Don't let the kids peek! Suggestions for the surprises are in the following steps.

2. Find a grassy area away from others. You want space to move and not be near cars. The best place to have fun at rest stops is away from the craziness at the bathrooms and restaurants.

3. Don't upset other travelers. They might not appreciate all the running around. Some people really just want to REST at rest stops. Be respectful.

4. 
   These feet are ready to move!

   Bring out the jump ropes! Even little kids can try. And even more fun is for kids to see their parents try. You can see who can do it the longest, who can do a double jump, or cross their arms. The possibilities are endless. Just make sure everyone is moving!

5. Break out the squirt guns! I like the little ones so no one gets too wet. You can break into teams or just have an all out attack.

6. Play freeze tag. In one of the best versions, to be unfrozen someone must crawl under your legs!

7. Play red rover, red rover. This is a great game for old and young alike.

8. 
   On the road again...

   Pile back in the car for some well earned quiet time. Hopefully exerting a lot of energy will help everyone (except the driver!) relax and enjoy the ride.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time at rest stops. If kids really get a chance to move around, they will last for longer stretches on the road.
• Make sure not to run around pet areas! There are certain things you don't want to track into the car.
• Tone down the running around if you use your rest stop time for eating.

[vintage]

on 9/4/2009 good ideas, good article 5*

[ginamichellesat]

on 8/8/2009 5 stars on How to Have Fun at Rest Stops!!!!!!!!

[imme911]

on 8/8/2009 great ideas...wish i'd had them when my kids were small