Traveling With Kids-Entertainment

Entertainment? Isn’t the travel entertaining enough? Well, not really. We as adults pack books, magazines, mp3 players and the like to keep ourselves entertained, and kids are no different. So plan ahead to avoid a massive meltdown on your part or a temper tantrum from the kids.

Listen to your kids

What do they want to bring? Let them pick out (within reason) some favorite toys, books, and other items to keep them happy along the way.

You know them better than anyone, and if you know that your son can color for hours or your daughter can play with dolls until she drops, don’t leave those things at home!

Surprise them

Kids are excited by new things, and that’s a fact. You can either pick them up some new toys and activities or squirrel away some of their things so they feel like they’re new. Save your money for the trip by keeping an eye open for sales throughout the year and saving the treats.

Don’t underestimate snacks!

No one is happy when they’re hungry, especially kids. Pack healthy treats like granola bars, applesauce, fruit or raisins, and make sure to have drinks as well. Getting some special treats for the trip will help entertain as well.

Be careful to stock healthy snacks and not just junk. Over sugared kids in a car? Not a good idea.

Plan to stop

The best entertainment when you’re traveling is a change of pace. If at all possible, plan for pauses in your trip where your kids can get out and run around. If you’re traveling by car, you could pack a picnic lunch and stop at a playground. Everyone eats, you save money by bringing food instead of eating out, and the kids can get out and play.

Entertaining kids along the way is a huge part of a stress free trip!

What are your tips for entertaining kids?