The holidays seem to take a toll on everybody’s schedule, mine especially. This season, we embarked on a 13 hour road trip to St. Louis, Mo. In the past, I have prepared the surprise bags that are given out for good behaviour every couple of hours or 100 miles or so, but we’ve settled into a comfortable routine of watching movies or playing his Leapster to pass the time.
The thing that struck me the most useful on this trip, and I have to say in all past trips, is having their toys, drinks, snacks, etc. within their own reach. I’ve been a big fan of the Taby Tray, which has been useful day in and day out for providing a flat place to have a picnic, draw or imaginary play. But my son doesn’t want it across his lap the whole time. He did want to be able to reach down and grab whatever he was interested in and not have to bug me in the front seat to get it.
It was the first time that I traveled with the Travel Pal. I’ve sold them in my store for car clutter organization, but I didn’t realize their true value was putting my son’s things within his reach. If reaching over the sides of the carseat is too difficult, then I’d recommend the Kangaroo Kiddie. It holds enough to keep a sippy cup, small books or toys. Plus it comes in fun colors such as pink and blue camo.
For the younger travelers, I recommend using one of the tether systems, such as Gigi-Mae or the SippiGrip. They help eliminate the pick-up game that a lot of kids play in the car or stroller.
So the lesson I learned for those long rides, is that if my child can reach his things, the less whining I hear, and everyone arrives much happier.
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