When my two little ones and I aren’t flying somewhere, we often hit the road in our car for a journey to visit Grandma and Grandpa in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. This adventure is a 6.5-hour drive from Boulder, which we tackle about three times a year. Sounds simple, right? After much trial and error, I’ve discovered some strategies that really help make the drive smoother. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Limit Interaction. This might come as a surprise to many parents, but I’ve found that the less I engage with my kids, the more peaceful the ride can be. While I adore singing along to songs, I’d rather not repeat “She’ll Be Coming Around the Mountain” for hours on end, so I try to keep my involvement minimal.
- Develop Your “Driver’s Face”. Every parent needs a way to regain control during those moments when chaos erupts in the backseat. My mom had a look that could stop us in our tracks—seriously, I still get a little anxious just thinking about it. Perfecting that “don’t mess with me” expression can be a game changer.
- Know How to Handle Emergencies. While it might not be the most glamorous aspect of parenthood, knowing how to manage your child’s urgent need to pee on the roadside is essential. The trick? Find a discreet spot, open the passenger doors, and create a little privacy for your child. It may seem gross to some, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
- Pack a Snack Cooler. Prepare a cooler with easy-to-eat items like cheese sticks, cut-up sandwiches, and fruit. But beware of the yogurt tubes—they can become a sticky disaster if given to toddlers in the car. Trust me on this one!
- Forget About Potty Training for the Trip. For the sake of your sanity, don’t stress over potty training during your journey. Just use diapers for the young ones and drive on.
- Use AM Static in a Crisis. If your child is melting down, it might be time to switch to some AM static. It sounds odd, but sometimes the white noise can be oddly soothing for an upset little one.
- Check the Weather Before You Go. Bad weather can turn a normal trip into a nightmare. I still remember struggling with icy roads and a crying baby on a trip that should have taken 6 hours but ended up taking 9. Always prioritize safety and avoid driving in poor conditions.
- Encourage Scenic Appreciation. While riding through beautiful areas, I often remind my kids to enjoy the scenery. Once, my son asked, “Do I have to keep appreciatin’ the scenery, Mom?” Yes, you do!
- Invest in Distractions. Get some headphones for your kids and a good car charger for their devices. While they are entertained, you can listen to an audiobook (library apps have great selections) to keep your sanity intact. Happy Mama Driver = Happy Family.
- Stay Flexible. Expect some chaos and find your inner calm. Even if your little one is belting out the same song for the millionth time, dig deep for patience—you’ll have plenty of opportunities for payback when they’re older!
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In summary, road trips with kids can be a challenge, but with a little preparation, you can create a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Remember to stay calm, pack wisely, and embrace the adventure!