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Have you been wanting to go on a vacation but find yourself putting it off because you have children? Would you love to get away from it all but dread traveling for any time or distance with the kids in the car? Are you worried that once you reach your destination you’ll have no time for yourself because you’ll be caring for your kids? Take heart AND take that vacation. There are ways to ensure that everyone in the family has a great time and the trip goes smoothly.
Car travel with children can be one of the most harrowing experiences in a parent’s life. The innumerable utterances of, “Are we there yet?” or “I have to go to the bathroom” and “I’m bored”, can eventually grate on the nerves of even the most patient of parents. Make that time spent in the car on the way to your destination practically fly by.
The first thing you have to do is change your mindset. If you are dreading the trip then the trip will be no fun. Think of it as an opportunity for the family to reconnect. Share conversation with your children. Don’t just hear them, but listen to them. And talk with them rather than at them.
Play games with them. Geography, the license plate game, even a scaled down version of charades can work in the car. Bring a few books along. Take turns reading stories to one another. Let your kids read to you, too. Not only will it help pass the time but who wouldn’t want the opportunity to get their children to read a little more? Make up stories of your own. Get an extra copy of a map and let your kids chart your progress. Have them try to estimate how much longer the trip will take or how many miles you have traveled. Use your imagination. Keep snacks and beverages in a small cooler on hand to minimize pit stops. Blankets and pillows are also helpful in case the kids get sleepy. By keeping them comfortable you are also keeping them happy and more content. Make the ride in the car a special time for your family You might be surprised, it might just turn out to be one of the highlights of your trip.
When planning a vacation with your children don’t forget that you are a family. A romantic weekend retreat is not the kind of place to bring the kids. Do research on your destination. Are the facilities equipped to handle children? Do they have established, safe and professional babysitting or child care services so that you can have some time to yourself? Are the accommodations in your hotel geared toward families? Check to see if your hotel offers discounts for kids. Do they offer activities for children? Contact the Chamber of Commerce and ask them to recommend family friendly attractions in the area in which you’ll be staying. Check out point of interest in an atlas. Research the area on the internet. There is a wealth of information available and you might be surprised with just how much you will be able to find. By doing a little extra investigation, planning ahead and being prepared you will undoubtedly ensure a more successful and enjoyable trip for the entire family.
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