Whenever my two kids and I travel by car, we often set off toward the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota to visit my parents. This journey takes about six and a half hours from Boulder, and we typically make the round trip three times each year. Sounds simple, right? After years of experience, I’ve learned a few strategies that work wonders for our family. Here are my top tips:
- Keep Your Distance: For those who tend to hover, this might be hard to digest. However, I’ve noticed that the less I engage with my kids during the drive, the less they seek my attention. If you enjoy endless renditions of “She’ll Be Coming Around the Mountain,” this may not apply to you.
- Perfect Your “Driver’s Warning Face”: As the person behind the wheel, your main tool for maintaining order is your serious expression. My mother mastered this look, and it still sends shivers down my spine. Practice in front of a mirror to ensure that your kids understand that you’re not to be trifled with when they’re acting out.
- Embrace the Art of Roadside Bathroom Breaks: While this may skirt legality, little ones often face urgent bladder situations at the most inconvenient times. If you see a sign indicating “No Services for 1 Billion Miles,” pull over discreetly, and help your child find a spot between the open car doors for some privacy.
- Pack a Snack Cooler: Prepare a cooler filled with easy-to-eat foods like cheese sticks, sandwiches, and fruit. However, beware of those yogurt tubes and pouch snacks with straw tops—trust me, they can create a mess that you’ll regret later.
- Forget About Potty Training: When you’re on the road, it’s best to give up on potty training. Just strap on a diaper and drive; it’ll save you a lot of stress.
- Use AM Static as a Last Resort: When faced with an inconsolable child, sometimes the sound of static can oddly provide a sense of calm. It’s strange, but it can momentarily distract them from their over-tired distress.
- Check the Weather: Avoid hitting the road in bad weather at all costs. I once endured a snowstorm with a 6-week-old that turned a 6-hour trip into a grueling 9-hour ordeal. It was a nightmare, and I still remember the panic of that driving experience.
- Encourage Scenic Appreciation: Occasionally remind your kids to look out at the scenery—though I admit, South Dakota isn’t always the most exciting view. On a California coast trip, my son once asked, “Do I have to keep appreciatin’ the scenery, mom?” Yes, you do!
- Invest in Their Entertainment: Let’s face it, trying to find music everyone enjoys can be futile. Instead, grab some headphones for your kids, charge up their devices, and indulge in an audiobook for yourself. Remember, a happy parent leads to a happy family!
- Stay Calm and Adapt: Road trips can be chaotic, and there will be moments when you question your sanity. When your child performs their 500th rendition of “Bill Grogan’s Goat,” dig deep for patience and remember that one day they’ll be the ones driving you around.
For more insights on navigating parenthood, check out our post on the Home Insemination Kit and learn about some financial strategies over at Financial Strategies. If you’re looking for excellent resources on the pregnancy journey, Cleveland Clinic has you covered.
In summary, road trips with kids can be challenging, but with a little preparation and a relaxed mindset, you can transform the journey into a memorable adventure for the whole family.