How to Entertain Kids in the Car While on Vacation

Long journeys can seem even longer when you have a couple screaming kids in the back seat. I have personally driven from New Jersey to California and back with 2 children. The key here is to keep them busy, and occupied. Idle hands are the devils playground.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• books
• portable dvd player
• gameboy
• PSP

1. One of the new fads is portable DVD players. They are inexpensive, easy to transport, and even come standard in some car models. If you own a portable DVD player make sure it works properly before you leave the house. Either have a ton of extra batteries on hand or the power cord. There is nothing worse then some excited children awaiting a movie and then bam, no batteries. Headphones can also be very beneficial to have on hand, along with a large selection of movies to choose from.

2. If your children like to read then bring a book. If this is their first long trip you might want to leave the book at home. Many children suffer from motion sickness while reading in a moving car.

3. Portable game units like a PSP or Game Boy can occupy them for long periods of time. If they are a bit older then a laptop might be useful.

4. Have some interactive games that you can play with them handy. Try I-spy or the license plate game.

5. If nothing seems to calm them down then stop. Pull over somewhere that everyone can take a breather. Grab a quick bite to eat and walk around for a few minutes. This can calm both your nerves and their attitude.