Keeping a Toddler Entertained and Happy in the Car
Anyone who has spent any time in the car with a toddler knows what a challenge it can be. Time it wrong and you can be faced with any number of melt downs – from the needs-a-nap tantrum to the hungry-and-yet-refuses-food fit. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can prevent – or at least cope – with these difficult times and make a car ride more enjoyable for everyone.
Following are five ways to keep a toddler entertained and happy during a trip in the car.
Time it right. If you’re planning a long trip, try to time it around (or during) nap time or times when you know your child is more active. We discovered that, with our daughter, if we leave before the crack of dawn in the morning for a five-hour trip, she will usually only wake up once or twice during the drive, and will wake up happier once we reach our destination.
Bring food. Be sure to bring snacks and juice or water along for your little one, including a bottle or other car-friendly fare. Don’t forget to bring a bottle or two of water – both for your toddler and for you.
Be silly. Don’t be afraid to get goofy. Sing along to the music with your kids, or even make up silly lyrics to go along with a favorite song (such as re-writing the words to a favorite lullaby or nursery rhyme). If you’re in the passenger seat, turn around and make silly faces at your child.
Bring along a surprise. Be sure to tuck away a special toy in the car that your toddler either hasn’t seen in a while or that is new to him or her – he or she will be much more likely to play with it and be amused longer if it’s something that’s not old and tiresome.
Roll with it. No matter what happens, be flexible. If your child needs to stop yet again for a potty break or a diaper change, go with it. Both your toddler and you will be happier that way, and the trip will be much more pleasant.
