Christmas car journeys with toddlers.
It's that time of year again and while you and the family will hopefully be getting into the festive spirit, there may be a few aspects of Christmas that you're dreading. Long trips to Granny and Grandpa's anyone?
Well, I can guarantee you're not alone. Travelling with a toddler can be taxing at the best of times. Add to that the fact that your little one is beyond hyper with the anticipation of Christmas and you may well feel like staying at home!
Don't worry - help is at hand! Here gurgle have compiled a few tips to help those long car journeys seem much more bearable. You might even enjoy yourself!
*Arrange for the car journey to coincide with your toddler's nap-time. That way your child will hopefully sleep for the majority of the journey and not only will you be spared the endless 'Are we there yet?'s, but he will be well-rested when you arrive at your destination and your relatives will (with any luck!) marvel at how well-behaved your child is.
*Take supplies. If your child is hungry, he's likely to get grouchy. Bring a range of healthy snacks like raisins, chopped up apples and mini-sandwiches filled with cheese, ham or turkey and cranberry (if you're feeling festive). Remember a flask of water or carton of juice too.
*Remember: boredom is the enemy! Get into the festive spirit and listen to some Christmas tapes filled with favourites like 'Jingle Bells', 'When Santa got stuck up the chimney' and 'Santa Claus is coming to town!' Join in and have a family sing-along.
*If you don't get car-sick, Mum or Dad (whoever isn't driving) can read a Christmas story, such as 'The Night Before Christmas'. Alternatively, you can tell your own version of a classic or make up a story. If your child is old enough, he could even have a go at telling his own!
*Play games like 'I spy'. Keeping your child stimulated is key and pointing out things you go past on your journey will entertain your child and help him to learn about nature. You could count passing cows and sheep and ask your toddler which noise each animal makes.
*Take lots of pit-stops where you can run about and all have a leg-stretch. This will also be a good chance for you all to pop to the toilet (if your child is potty trained).
*Bring a plastic bag and spare change of clothes in case your child does become car-sick or you don't make it to the toilet in time - you don't want to be caught short.
*Bring some pens and paper. Your child can then make a Christmas picture to give his grandparents (or whoever you're visiting) when you arrive. He could draw Santa, Rudolph or a snowman, for example.
*Keep your little one cosy and warm; bring a blanket and cuddly toy for him to snuggle up to.
* So that your child feels he has something to look forward to - and knows that the journey won't last forever - talk to him about all the lovely things you're going to do when you arrive at the other end. You could also ask him about any important pieces of news he has to relay, such as recent performances at nursery or who his current best friend is and what he's like!
Remember that safety is key on car journeys: everyone must have their seatbelt on at all times and your child must be in the correct car seat. For more information, read our feature on Car journeys with toddlers.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Related Articles
Last Modified: 10/12/2008
Related Chat
You'll need to be logged in to post new Comments and Answers or to Chat.
Login or
Register