"No! We're Not There Yet!"-
Surviving the Family Road Trip
According to the Australian Department of
Energy, travel is increasing every year and it
is predicted that even more people will be on
the road this year. Traveling with the family
can be a great way to spend quality time
together but it can also be stressful. Increase
your chances of a fun, stress-free and safe
vacation by following these simple tips:
• Beat boredom with child's play. "Are we there
yet?" What is it about these words that go
straight to a parent's spine? Keep kids
entertained with some great car games that make
getting where you're going half the fun.
Magnetic board games, portable video games and
classics such as the license plate game, "I
Spy" and the alphabet game will keep energetic
kids in good spirits and actively engaged no
matter how long the journey.
• Stop smart. When stopping at rest stops,
make sure it's just your kids getting back in
the car and not the bacteria and germs they
pick up in the bathroom. Bring products that
keep your family healthy, such as hand
sanitizer and Lysol Disinfectant Spray, to kill
rest stop germs that can be transferred from
the rest room to the surfaces in your car. To
prepare for those inevitable spills and "oops"
moments, keep paper towels or wet wipes
handy.
• Eat right. Sure, you can stop at the rest
stop for food-along with the thousands of other
people on the road. But roadside dining doesn't
always offer the healthiest choices. Instead,
keep your family's bellies full with snacks
that you can eat right in the car, such as
trail mix, string cheese, fruit roll-ups,
bottles of water, and fruit. These easy,
convenient snacks are yummy (for them) and
healthy (for you).
• Keep everyone happy. Pick a destination
that has fun activities for all ages. While
it's tempting to head for the place that the
kids will love, make sure there's something for
mom, dad and grandma to do as well. Some top
family vacation spots that offer something for
everyone include Orlando, Fla., Anaheim,
Calif., Williamsburg, Va., Hershey, Pa. and
Yellowstone National Park.
Family vacations can be chaotic but
immensely rewarding. And if you keep these tips
in mind, you can help ensure safe and happy
travels-at least until you get there.
When stopping at rest stops, make sure it's
just your kids getting back in the car and not
germs they pick up in the bathroom
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