How to Plan a Long Road Trip with Toddlers
Road trips can be fun and exciting even for a toddler if you plan the right activities. On the other hand, if you don't plan ahead, they can also be long and boring. When taking a road trip with a toddler, it is particularly important to plan for breaks and bring activities so the toddler does not get bored and fussy, which would make the trip long for everyone in the car.
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Instructions
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Bring food and beverages for your toddler. Bring healthy foods and favorite snacks that are easy to swallow so you don't have to worry about your toddler choking. Gerber Graduates Puffs are a good choice. Most toddlers love the taste, they dissolve easily and they are made with real fruit. Also bring juice and water for your toddler to drink. Spill-proof sippy cups will protect the interior of your car. Bring more than one so you don't have to worry about washing it in the middle of your trip.
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If your car does not already have a DVD player installed, consider purchasing a portable DVD player. If you take a lot of road trips, you may want to consider purchasing an overhead flip-down DVD player for your vehicle. Whether you are using a portable DVD player or an overhead DVD player, make sure to bring your toddler's favorite movies to keep him happy when he starts getting bored.
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Bring your toddler's favorite toys and activities. Stuffed animals and security blankets can help him feel at home from his car seat. He also will enjoy playing with his favorite toys such as blocks, activity laptops or musical toys.
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Plan to stop every two to three hours for breaks. Car seats can get uncomfortable and your toddler will need to stretch his legs. If he wears diapers you will need to change them frequently, and if he is out of the diaper stage he will need to stop often for bathroom breaks. Also plan on stopping for at least three meals a day depending on how many times a day your toddler usually eats. It's OK for your toddler to nap in his car seat, however plan to stop overnight so that your toddler does not get cramped from being in the same position for too long.
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Dress the toddler appropriately for the weather. Consider the time of year and the climate. Dressing him in light layers is a good idea. He can always use a blanket if he is cold. Also consider the climate of the locations you will be traveling through. Bring extra clothes that are easy to change into. Don't forget to bring a first aid kit with infant's Tylenol, vitamins, Band-Aids and any medications for your toddler.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider the age of the toddler when choosing movies or activities.
Follow car seat laws applying to the age of your toddler. For example, states have different requirements regarding the age children graduate from a car seat to a booster seat.
References
- Photo Credit child in the car image by Natalia Pavlova from Fotolia.com
