Driving home for Christmas
Little ones can find long journeys difficult as they have just started to develop a sense of independence and so being cooped up in a car, unable to move when they want to, feels like you are trying to stop them exploring: this can lead to very cranky little ones!
But the lure of Father Christmas is strong, as is the lure of Grandma’s house (and her many surprises!) With that in mind, here are a few simple tips for keeping your little ones occupied and happy whilst you’re driving home for Christmas:
- Keep your little ones informed
Long journeys can be just as stressful for your children as they are for you. But if you let them know where you are going and why (for example, “we’re going to Grandma’s house to see Grandma and wait for Santa”) then they know there is a treat for them at the end of the long journey, and that the travelling will be worth it!
- Bring your Christmas carol CD
Little ones love singing, especially at Christmas time. Listening to Jingle Bells for hours may not seem like fun to you, but your toddler will love it.
- Pack Christmas themed toys and books
Keep the Christmas spirit alive on your long journey by packing Christmas themed story books, toys and colouring books for the journey. This will keep your little ones excitement levels high (and remembering that Santa is watching them is a sure fire way to keep good behaviour!) Avoid toys that play tunes that could annoy the driver though – no one wants to listen to three hours of mechanical nursery rhymes!
- Keep talking
Frequently talk to your little one. He may feel a bit deserted in the back seat especially if he is on his own there. Point out interesting things he can see from his window and tell him stories if he seems bored: the story of Father Christmas or the Twelve days of Christmas will have them enthralled at this time of year.
- Don’t forget your seat belts!
Whilst running around grabbing those last minute presents and checking (for the tenth time) that you’ve packed all the suitcases, it’s easy to jump in the car and forget to belt up. Understandable, but this sets a terrible example for your little ones. Follow the seat belt rule: the car does not move until everyone (including all adults) has his or her seat belt on, and encourage your little ones to remind you if you forget!
Where will you be spending Christmas this year? Will you be taking your little ones on a long journey and how will you be handling it? We’d love it if you shared your travel tips in our chat forums.
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Mothercare
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