Family trips can be a source of incredible memories, but let's be honest, long journeys with kids can also be challenging. As a father myself, I've learned a few tricks over the years to keep my son, Marko, entertained and prevent those dreaded travel meltdowns. Here are some tips to make your next family adventure a little smoother.
Planning and Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success
One of the best ways to ensure a pleasant journey is to involve your children in the planning process. When we were deciding on our summer holiday last year, I sat down with Marko and showed him pictures of different destinations. Letting him choose between a few options made him feel like he was part of the decision-making, and he was much more excited about the trip.
Discussing the journey beforehand is also crucial. Explain to your kids what to expect, how long the trip will take, and the importance of being patient. We often use a map to show Marko our route, pointing out interesting landmarks we might see along the way. This helps him visualize the journey and understand the concept of time.
Packing a 'travel kit' for each child can be a lifesaver. Fill it with their favorite activities, snacks, and comfort items. For Marko, this usually includes his favorite stuffed animal, a coloring book, and some healthy snacks. A little bit of preparation can go a long way in preventing boredom and keeping your kids happy.
Consider the time of day you are traveling. We have found that overnight flights are great as Marko sleeps for a lot of it, but you need to be prepared with comfortable pyjamas and familiar comfort items.
Travel-Friendly Games and Activities: Beating Boredom on the Go
Classic travel games are always a hit. 'I Spy,' '20 Questions,' and the license plate game are simple, fun, and require no equipment. These games are great for keeping kids engaged and entertained, especially during long stretches of road or air travel.
Card games like Uno and Skipbo are also excellent options. They're compact, easy to learn, and can provide hours of entertainment. Travel-sized board games, such as magnetic chess or Battleship, are another great way to keep kids occupied without taking up too much space.
Travel scavenger hunts can add an element of adventure to your journey. Create a list of things to spot along the way, such as a red car, a cow, or a church. This activity encourages kids to pay attention to their surroundings and makes the journey more engaging.
Don't forget about creative activities! Coloring books, sticker books, and blank books for drawing are all great options. Mad Libs can also provide plenty of laughs. For hands-on activities, consider Wikki Stix, Play-Doh, or small Lego sets. I have also found latch boards, maze cubes and sticker by number books keep Marko entertained for ages.
Leveraging Technology: Educational and Entertaining Apps
Technology can be a valuable tool for keeping kids entertained during long journeys. However, it's important to choose age-appropriate apps and manage screen time effectively. We like to curate a list of educational games, language learning apps (like Duolingo or Babbel), and creative apps (for drawing or movie-making).
Downloading movies, TV shows, and audiobooks onto tablets or devices is another great way to keep kids occupied. We recently discovered the Yoto Mini, an audiobook player designed specifically for kids. It's been a huge hit with Marko.
Make sure each child has headphones to minimize distractions for others. Parental control apps like OurPact can help you manage screen time and ensure your kids are using technology responsibly.
Comfort and Practicality: Ensuring a Smooth Ride
Comfort is key to a smooth journey. Pack comfortable clothing and pajamas for overnight flights. Bringing familiar comfort items, such as stuffed animals or blankets, can also help kids feel more secure and relaxed.
An ample supply of snacks and drinks is essential to avoid hunger-related meltdowns. Pack a variety of healthy options, such as fruits, vegetables, and granola bars. Staying hydrated is also important, especially during long flights.
If you're traveling by plane, be prepared for 'airplane ear' during take-off and landing. Chewing gum, sucking on hard candies, or yawning can help alleviate the pressure. For road trips, plan for regular breaks to stretch, use the bathroom, and run around.
Engaging with the Destination: Making Travel Educational
Travel can be a fantastic learning opportunity for kids. Before your trip, incorporate books and audiobooks about the destinations you'll be visiting. This can spark their curiosity and make them more engaged with the experience.
Encourage your children to document their travels through drawing, journaling, or photography. This helps them process their experiences and create lasting memories. Turning travel into a learning experience by identifying landmarks, discussing local culture and history, and visiting local parks, museums, and historical sites.
If possible, try cooking local cuisines together. This is a fun and interactive way to learn about different cultures and create lasting memories. Travel broadens the mind, so get the children involved!
Tips and tricks to keep children entertained during long journeys, making travel more enjoyable for the whole family.
