T- take along snacks and water for the ride and make frequent washroom breaks.

I- include toys, books and games for entertainment.

P- plan the right time to travel depending on the age of your child or children.  

S- stop to stretch, see some sights and use the washroom. Enjoy some stretching by singing

     Head and Shoulders or take a short nature walk.

Travelers Trail Mix

4 cups of small pretzels

2 cups of peanuts (omit if someone has a peanut allergy)

2 cups of raisins

4 cups of cheerios

250 g of small m&m’s

Mix in large bowl and divide into small airtight containers. Keep in cool place.

Toys and Entertainment

Surprise Backpack

Pack a special backpack or bag for each child, with crayons, books, toys, activity sets, stickers-- include some new wrapped surprises for little kids.

Books are a great way to pass the time away. Bring along some of your child’s favourite stories or purchase a book that highlights your final destination.

Try to limit video games by introducing old fashion favourites such as Connect the Dots, Tic Tac Toe or simple word puzzles.

License Plate Game

Look for license plates that begin with each letter of the alphabet. Play collectively to find each license plate and set a time limit that works best for you.

Sound Game

Look out the window or use a picture book. Have your child name what he/she sees and then figure out what the first sound in the word is.

Straight Face

This one can be very funny.

To start, pick someone to be “it.” Everyone else in the car then picks a phrase such as, “a cat’s tail”, “my monkey’s moustache”, or “six smelly sneakers”. The person who is “it”, then asks a question while the others reply with their chosen phrase.

·         What do you brush your teeth with? … “a cat’s tail”

·         What is your favourite breakfast food? … “a cat’s tail”

·         What would you write with? … “a cat’s tail”

·         What do you comb your hair with? … “a cat’s tail”

Repeat with the other phrases and you will hear many laughs!

Tip: If your child tends to get carsick, encourage him/her to look out the window. This will help alleviated any feelings of motion sickness.

Drive safely and Happy Trails!