Driving with kids - Tips & Hints
There is one question that all drivers embarking on a long journey with children dread - ÒAre we there yet?!?Ó As a leading provider of car insurance in the UK, we're concerned about your safety and sanity on the road. Long car journeys with children can be stressful, but they needn't be daunting. We have compiled a list of tips for long journeys to make your trip an enjoyable experience, rather than an ordeal.
- Firstly, decide what to take with you. It's not difficult to keep bored children entertained, but you do need to be prepared. Pack a number of games, puzzles and activities for kids and make sure there are enough to go around. Music and audio books are a good idea, and song singing is also a fun activity - many a long drive has been saved by an extended rendition of The Wheels on the Bus. There are many in-car activities you can play too, such as eye spy, or using the map as a tool to keep children entertained.
- Make the car space comfortable for your younger passengers. Try not to pack too much into the back seat area, and take cushions and blankets to encourage napping. Be aware of the temperature in the back seat as it may differ from the front, and always dress children in layers of clothing. Hand-held fans are a great idea for summer holiday trips.
- Snacks and drinks are essential, especially plenty of water. Plan a picnic somewhere along your route, buying provisions along the way or taking them from home. Motion sickness can be alleviated with peppermint or ginger, so always keep some sweets with you.
Break up a long journey with lots of stops. Find a playground, a park or recreation area and let off some steam. Better still, find something worth visiting along your route and make it a focus of the journey.
Related articles:
Summer driving tips for young drivers,
Winter driving tips for young drivers,
Women and driving - The facts,
Security tips for women drivers,
Driving with kids - Tips & Hints &
Young drivers insurance tips.
