Drivin’ In My Car
Although it’s one of my favorite songs for story time, it’s also what I’ll be doing for the majority of the day today. On Monday, I drove out to my parent’s house (to beat that crazy storm) and now I sit in the car for the next 8+hours to reach my grandparent’s house in the land of snow an cold (Milwaukee). I’m really not sure how my parents handled this trip every year with my three siblings and myself plus the family dog in the car. My mom says we were great travelers! but itching that was in part because we were used to it and part because my parents did everything in their power to make it fun.
Ideas for long car trips:
- Play travel games… Look for the letters of the alphabet on license plates, billboards and more. This is a great way to encourage literacy skills while working together.
- Coloring books, magnetic travel games, and fun snacks are a must.
- Audiobooks are great for family trips – ask a librarian for some great books for all ages.*
- Make sure kids get a chance to move when taking bathroom breaks… My parents encouraged a race to and from the rest area building (on the sidewalks of course!)
*Some of my favorite audiobooks include:
- Skippyjon Jones – these are read by the author and the whole family will be rolling on the floor giggling at the crazy imagination of Skippyjon Jones
- Harry Potter – definitely for an older audience but Jim dale does an amazing job narrating this series
- The 39 Clues series – these are a quick read perfect for elementary school kids who love a good adventure
- Flipped – by Wendelin Van Draanen. This is a great audiobook for girls looking for a good chick lit book (and you don’t have to worry about the content!)
I have great memories of many of our car trips across the country; enjoy the time together as a family! Happy Thanksgiving!
