My parents live just a couple of hours away, making weekend family road trips a regular summer activity, particularly since they have a pool—and let’s be honest, my five-year-old tends to favor Grandma’s company over mine.
While my spouse and I dread these journeys, they were far worse when we lived ten hours away. Back then, we only had one child to manage, but now, the challenge of wrangling two kids in the backseat makes even a two-hour drive feel daunting.
You might be thinking that two hours isn’t much of a trip for adults, but with kids, anything longer than a 15-minute jaunt to the store can feel like an epic journey, primarily due to the endless demands for snacks, toys, games, drinks, and, of course, more snacks because kids never seem satisfied with the first few options. Let’s not even start on the crayons and other messes that come with the territory.
Turning Dread into Excitement
Family road trips can be a hassle, but there’s a way to turn that dread into excitement: just relax!
Remember when you were a kid and road trips felt like an adventure? I certainly do, and I suspect my kids feel the same way. As a parent, the perspective shifts dramatically, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The secret? Technology and a little leniency.
Kids often believe that the journey is part of the fun. I recall kicking off my shoes the moment we hit the highway, signaling the start of vacation mode. To keep your sanity intact during these drives, lean into that mindset—especially when typical parenting strategies like time-outs or “go to your room” aren’t options.
Embrace Technology and Snacks
While you may usually limit screen time, consider allowing some leeway during road trips. Our five-year-old enjoys Pixar marathons with his headphones, thankfully saving us from hearing “Let It Go” for the umpteenth time.
Instead of rationing snacks, we stock the backseat with a stash of Goldfish, juice boxes, and fruit snacks. This way, the person in the front seat isn’t constantly playing waiter, and let’s be honest, keeping kids happy is a priority!
Let Go of Minor Squabbles
Don’t fret about minor squabbles; sometimes a little chaos is part of the fun. Driving for an extended time with family can be stressful, so give yourself and your kids a break. Your usual discipline won’t vanish just because you loosen the reins a bit. In fact, a permissive “yes” often leads to smiles and quiet, while a stern “no” can spiral into chaos—especially when you’re stuck in a car.
Make It a Highlight
So, rather than dreading your next family road trip, make it a highlight of your vacation. By easing up on the rules, you’ll increase your chances of arriving at your destination without any major meltdowns.
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Summary
Family road trips don’t have to be stressful. By embracing a more relaxed attitude and allowing some flexibility in rules, parents can transform these journeys into enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.