Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Travel Tips for Taking Your Children

By John Web


Traveling can be stressful for all of us, even the seasoned globetrotter, however when you are taking your children you need to pay extra attention. Children do get bored easily and need to be occupied, plus there are logistical issues associated with taking a trip with your child.

E prepared and use these handy hints for a stress-free journey with your children.

Car Travel

Long car journeys can be very tiring and monotonous, though as the driver you are engaged in driving safely and frequently at high speeds. In the meanwhile, the children are in the back seat and trying their best not to fidget or vent their frustrations out on you and everyone else...if you are fortunate enough to have well-behaved kids!
The first thing to appreciate is you will not be able to beat all-comer records, because you will need to stop regularly so they can take a break. Factor extra rest breaks into your journey planning and make sure there are restroom facilities available so there are no accidents.

Take plenty of toys and play activities for the kids to enjoy, especially those which are suitable for use in the car. One excellent tip is to make sure there are no toys which make a noise, unless you equip the child with headphones, say to watch a movie on the laptop.

Makes sure you have a cooler with plenty of drinks and snacks. Go for dry foods which do not make a sloppy mess - crumbs and wafers can be easily cleaned up, but a fruit cup will get all over the child and your car. If you have one, bring a small, battery operated vacuum cleaner to keep the vehicle clean and more comfortable for everyone.
Always have an emergency medical kit in the vehicle, and with children you should ensure you have appropriate child medications for headaches or travel sickness.

Children and Air Travel

Airports are usually busy, hectic and crowded places and for a child, this can be a scary experience, especially when you factor in a flight. You should orientate your child on what to expect, for instance with airport security searches and inspections.

Always factor in additional time to get to the airport and through check-in and security when you have children. Ensure your child pays a visit to the restroom before you start check-in, and again before you commence security checks and yet again before you board the aircraft.

A good tip is to make your child feel special and engaged in what is going; you can do this by making them their very own carry on bag. Pack it with favorite toys, coloring books, pencils and other activities. Do not pack it with fluids as these are likely to attract the attention of security and in any event, you do not want your kids to get messy on the plane.

No matter what form of transport you are taking, always pack wet wipes and paper towels! You can use the wet wipes to clean up any mess, but they are also useful for refreshing tired kids who will all too quickly be asking, "Are we there yet?"




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