Travelling with children

Travelling with children

 

Automotive Travelling with children isn’t easy, for you or for them, but by following these simple tips, you’ll be able to take at least some of the stress out of the journey. - Before you go, make a list of everything you're going to need to minimise the chance of anything being forgotten. If your child has a favourite toy, make sure to put it at the top of the list; forget it, and your journey’s doomed. - Ensure your child's car seat is properly installed before you set-off. - Invest in a car-window shade and stick it on your child's window to protect him or her from the negative effects of too much sun. - Kids are notorious for injuring themselves on the most obscure of things, so remember to pack a well-stocked first-aid kit, complete with plasters, bandages, and antiseptic wipes. - It's important for kids to have a healthy-diet, but don't stick to your usual routine too strictly when travelling. Allowing your child to

 tuck-into a few sugary snacks is guaranteed to simplify your journey: not only will they be too busy munching to moan, but they'll also enjoy travelling in the future. - Everyone should have a full eight hours’ worth of sleep before the journey. Tired children are difficult to placate, and tired parents generally tend to lack patience. - If you can, give your child a back-pack containing his or her things to hold onto during the journey. Kids like to feel important, and will therefore appreciate being in control of their things; not only that, it'll save you having to root in the boot mid-journey for any of your child's things. - If possible, don't start your journey early in the morning. Although early morning drives are ideal for adults, most children don't appreciate being stuff in a car immediately after breakfast. The best time of the day to set off is just after lunch when your child's contented and ready to nap. - Have regul

ar stops. Your child will need to stretch his or her legs, and you, as either the driver or the care-giver, will need a chance to recuperate. Familiarise yourself with the service stations you'll pass by meticulously planning your route in advance. - Audio books are a clever way to keep your child entertained. Instead of having to read your child's favourite story to them, you can simply pop it into the CD player and relax as they become engrossed in the storyline. - Staying relaxed is important, because children are incredibly good at sensing, and mimicking, their parents’ emotions. That means that if

 you're stressed, it's very likely that they will be, too. Drink plenty of water to minimise the risk of dehydration and headaches, and have a good walk around the service stations to revitalise yourself. Packing a flask of coffee is never a bad idea, either. - Finally, enjoy: your child’s unlikely to have too many tantrums, meaning that the majority of the journey can be spent enjoying the new-found family time. Had a travelling disaster and decided it’s time for a more family friendly vehicle? Check out Dacia, the car company who specialise in family-style cars.