Toddler Times
Over The River And Through The Woods With A Toddler
Harrison in his car seat.
This past weekend, Harrison and I took a little jaunt with my family down to South Carolina to do catch-up on Christmas with my brothers and ring in the new year. My husband had a family emergency on his side, so I packed bags for the little guy and myself and we hitched a ride in the back of my parent’s Chrysler.
I have to admit that I was NERVOUS. Like, NERVOUS ALL-CAPITAL-LETTERS-REQUIRED. My child notoriously hates the car, but I don’t blame him since we are in it almost 3 hours per day due to our (insane!) commute. He screams. He kicks. He refuses to be consoled and there’s not much I can do when I am driving.
But this trip was a success! and I would love to share what helped make my car-hating toddler a (temporary) road-warrior:
- Travel at night. We put the kid in pajamas and left at bedtime so he could nod off.
- Bring blanket and lovies. I snagged the Lightning McQueen fleece right off his bed so he could snuggle it in the car seat.
- Snacks and non-spill sippy cups are key.
- Bring a few super-duper treats. I brought DumDum lollipops so the moment he started feeling antsy, I handed him a super special treat that kept him happy and occupied for another 20 minutes.
- DVD player. For a 5+ hour trip, this gave us over an hour of quiet, happy toddler watching Curious George.
- Pick up a few (small) new toys and pull them out at intervals.
- Pull over and let him stretch. At a rest area in the grass, or even at a convenience store. I let him pick a drink, too (obviously milk or juice).
Happy travels, folks!
Beth Anne writes words & takes pictures on The Heir to Blair.
You can also find her on the Twitters & Facebook.
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1 Comment
Brea commented on Jan 02 12 at 4:50 pmThanks for the tips! I’m taking an 8+ hour car ride with my 13 month old soon. Like you, I am NERVOUS! Here’s to hoping these tips help me (and my son) stay sane
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