This post was sponsored by Disney and Scholastic. The opinions and text are all mine.
Traveling as a family is one of our favorite things to do together. There’s just something about leaving all the things that need to get done behind and looking ahead to spending fun times together. But when you’re traveling with little kids preparation is key. No matter how much fun you plan, little kids don’t always get with the program do they? Here are a few things we do to insure our family trips are full of fun and not tears.
1. Build excitement! Little kids love to travel. They are so excited to experience and see new things. I love the curiosity of my little ones. Use this excitement and teach them about where you will be going and what they will be doing. Explain what they will see along the way. If you will be sightseeing, this will bring added meaning and help them understand and retain what they are experiencing.
2. Plan special things your littles will enjoy. Make sure they know it’s a special time for them too! Think of them when you plan meals, outings, and schedules. With a family of seven I try to plan things every person will enjoy. This also means that every activity isn’t every person’s favorite thing, but I do my best to explain to them what we’re doing, why, and what will happen later. For example if we are going to a museum that Daddy wants to see, I make sure and tell them that we’re there for Daddy and it’s his time, but that when the museum time is over we’ll be going to the water park for their time. They need to be learn to be happy for others as well as themselves.
For some more great ways to help plan your trip with your toddler in mind, check out Traveling with Preschoolers Made Easy.
3. Prepare for the unexpected! When you plan ahead mentally that things will not all go smoothly, it’s so much easier to deal with when it happens. If you’ve followed our family road trips, then you know someone gets sick EVERY trip. Plan ahead for sickness! I pack a bag with all the medicine we use, zip tight bags for car sickness, wipes, and things to help make a sicky comfortable and hydrated. Also make allowance in your schedule for the unexpected as well.
4. Make use of technology. I am one of those parents that limits technology around the house. I want my toddlers running and playing outside and interacting with their siblings and friends as much as possible. On a road trip, however, I make use of all the technology I have. That way my little kids enjoy the trip and I do too!
Here are 14 great travel apps, games, and toys for preschoolers that you may want to consider to keep them happy on the road.
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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Disney. The opinions and text are all mine.
