It's A Trip

Monday, April 05, 2010
by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

If you've been reading, you know we've been off on an adventure. We survived the trip cross-country (via 2 planes and one 3-hour car ride) to visit the family. Have you traveled with your munchkin yet? No, not the across town trip to Grandma's, a full-blown trek in the hopes of seeking some fun and a break from the routine.

I know some families that, once the kiddo came along, decided to stay home for a bit. Let's face it; traveling with an infant or toddler can be well...um...a little "work."  Even though gone are the days of my leisurely reading of magazines on the plane while sipping my favorite caffeinated drink, I am a big fan of packing up the family and heading out. Yes, totally worth it, even without my beverage of choice and magazines.

So, with survival in mind, I thought I would pass along a few of the essentials that saved (I mean supported) us during our latest road trip:

* Whether infant or toddler, ensure you have the basics: food (if you are nursing, this is blissfully simple), favorite blanket (if you are concerned about losing it, mark it), a toy or two (read on below for a few ideas), and a change of clothes/diapers/wipes and a plastic bag for disposal.  Yes, I've been guilty of even disposing of the clothes in an instance or two.  Wasteful, but sometimes makes for a less-stressful moment.

* Don't bring the same ole' toys. This is the time to have a few "tricks up your sleeve." Visit the dollar bin of your local store and think out of the box. Look for items that are light, disposable, and will appeal to your kiddo. For mine, the box of Dora band-aids got us a few miles down the road.  The "Color Wonder" markers were perfect for a toddler's inaccuracy when scribbling.  Stickers and a small book or other folder paper to stick them on  are great for fine motor skills & keeping a toddler engaged for a few more minutes.  With supervision (re: chokable), coins with an older toddler can create great amusement (great for sorting, counting and learning something new!).

* Take every minute when outside the car or plane to help your munchkin wiggle! Airports are fabulous places to explore. The escalator (with me holding her hand, of course!) was as grand as a visit to the local playground. Highway rest stops usually provide some green (safe) places for running around (consider packing a ball which can be easily inflated/deflated).

* Portable DVD player. I'll admit it, I was one of those parents who said that I would never own one of those, but when one was gifted to us last holiday season, I knew I was armed with another resource for our upcoming trip. This was going to be my last resort. I was going to save it until I needed it most. For us, the moment came about an hour into a 4-hour flight. Nap had been officially denied and I was running out of ideas. My idea had been a nap! So, out came the portable DVD player and in popped a Dora video (remember, library rentals = free!). Ah, 26 minutes of delight for my toddler and I took a break.  Remember (food for thought), the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no television viewing for children under the age of two.

The above list is getting long so perhaps I should stop these ramblings here.

With so many ideas of what to bring just to keep the kiddo engaged, you might feel a bit overwhelmed about all you need to pack. Consider packing fewer clothes (chances are, you can easily find a place to do a load of laundry).  Only take enough diapers, formula/snacks, etc. that you will need in route. You can get your other essential supplies when you arrive. Take the stroller (gate check if you are flying) and/or a good carrier.

Last but not least, remember, this is supposed to be "fun." Don't forget to pack your sense of humor!

Traveling with kids...it's a "trip!"

What's essential when you travel with your child?

Cheers-
Jeannie
 

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