Driving with Kids

The Long haul drive with children can be your worst nightmare.  Here are a few tips to help get you through;

For the 0 - 6 year olds

Goody bags - prepare a goody bag before the trip to include; books, toys, sweets and games

Car Fairy   -  invent a car fairy who loves car rides and leaves little presents or clues in the car especially for little people.  Grown ups are not allowed to be visited by the car fairy!.

In car cinema - invest in a portable DVD player with twin screens and don't forget a varied selection of suitable films.

Comfort breaks - Have regular stops and get the kids to run about before getting back on the road.  Wear them out abit!.

Halfway point - Have a secret small supply of toys/books or games or a new DVD to break up the ride and prevent fighting and boredom.

For the Older Children

This could be fatal if the older ones are not catered for aswell.  Here's some ideas:

In car entertainment - Again the DVD player is a winner with the relevant films

Goody bag -  a older stye goody bag with magazines, books, sweets and games.  No Car Fairy for this lot!

Portable games consoles - You can buy cheap but the best will last longer such as Nintendo DS and PSP's.  Remember the games aswell!.

Portable music players - such as CD and Ipods. 

Disposable camera -  fun for long trips.  Let the kids snap away to relieve boredom and be creative.

Magnetic Board Games -  Such as chess and snakes and ladders are great as the pieces never get lost and stay where they should.

Always try to plan ahead and if you can pack the car the night before.  This should be less stressful!.

Lastly, enjoy your journey and Good Luck!!.