When traveling by car instead of flying, my two little ones and I frequently embark on journeys to visit family in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. This six-and-a-half-hour drive from Boulder happens about three times a year, and while it may seem simple, I’ve learned a lot about what really works. Here’s my guide to surviving these adventures.
- Limit Interaction: For those who might gasp at this suggestion, hear me out. The more I engage with my kids, the more they want attention. While singing “She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain” a thousand times might be your thing, I prefer a quieter ride.
- Master Your “You-Better-Stop-That” Look: As the driver, your ability to convey a stern warning is crucial. My mom had this down to an art. The right look can stop mischief in its tracks. Practice in front of the mirror if you need to—it’s a valuable skill.
- Learn to Assist with Roadside Potty Needs: While this may not be entirely legal, emergencies happen. Kids have small bladders and the urge usually strikes when there are no restrooms in sight. Find a discreet spot, park strategically, and help your child as needed. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary.
- Pack a Snack Cooler: Bring along some easy-to-eat foods like cheese sticks, fruit, and sandwiches. However, be cautious with yogurt tubes and those pouches with straws—they can lead to messy explosions. Trust me, avoid giving them to toddlers in motion.
- Forget About Potty Training: During the trip, don’t stress about potty training. A simple diaper will do the trick, letting you focus on the road ahead.
- Use AM Static for Calming: If you’re dealing with an inconsolable child in the backseat, sometimes the best solution is to turn on AM static. It may sound strange, but it can surprisingly soothe an upset little one.
- Check the Weather: This is crucial. A road trip during bad weather can turn a simple drive into a harrowing experience. I still remember a snowstorm that turned a six-hour trip into a nine-hour marathon. Avoiding bad conditions is key to a smooth journey.
- Encourage Scenic Appreciation: While driving through picturesque landscapes, make sure your kids take a moment to enjoy the view. During a California trip, my son once asked if he had to keep “appreciatin’ the scenery.” Yes, kiddo, that’s part of the experience.
- Invest in Headphones: Don’t waste your time trying to find entertainment that pleases everyone. Get your kids headphones and a car charger for their devices. As for you, listen to an engaging audiobook—libraries often have great selections.
- Maintain a Relaxed Attitude: Embrace the chaos. You may feel like tossing your tone-deaf child out the window after their umpteenth rendition of a silly song, but dig deep for patience. Remember, one day they’ll be taking you on trips!
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Summary
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with the right strategies—like managing interactions, packing wisely, and keeping a calm demeanor—you can enjoy the journey as much as the destination.