An Outing with the Children

Can you honestly say it’s a pleasurable experience taking the little ones out in the “family car” for an outing at the weekends? More often than not we have just about cleared the end of the our road when the familiar question is heard loud and clear from the back seat of the car “Are we nearly there yet?”
We tend to stop off quite regularly to let the children stretch their legs and have a little run around, but sometimes this just is’nt really viable and that’s when we have to resort to plan B.
Generally we muddle through, but here are a few tips for surviving car travel with kids.
One: Always try to allow plenty of time for stops. Maybe 2 hours of car time, then maybe a break, this seems a good idea with young children.
Two: Prior to the journey let them get a special backpack or bag together with crayons, books, toys, activity sets, stickers, handheld games and maybe even including some new wrapped surprises for little kids.
Three: Small board games can be a good investment.A tray would be helpful for this or something to place the game on. If these new games are just kept for the car journeys they will probably not become bored with them.
Four: Bring plenty of snacks, such as fruit, crackers, juice packs, and treats, also an insulated bag for cold drinks would be a great idea, especially in hot weather. Plastic cups, elastoplasts and a towel, will more than likely come in very useful. For the “pit stops” a frisbee and ball for a little play around is a good way to expend some energy and one item which is a must is of course baby wipes no matter what age your kids are.
Five: Stories on audiobooks can make the miles fly by. Maybe even play a story for the whole family on the car stereo, or if possible bring individual players for your kids. Make sure you visit your local library to choose some stories beforehand.
Six: Stop off at Burger King or MacDonalds and whilst Mum and Dad get a much needed snack or bite to eat the children can have a break in the playrooms. Or just let the kids get rid of their energy while you order their food "to go" to eat later in the car.
Seven:  The promise of a picnic is always a winner. The children can run around and you save money on food!

So, taking all this on board hopefully the children will be happy and Mum and Dad enjoy their day out too!