Got a long car journey coming up soon? It can definitely feel daunting with a toddler in the back - especially if you’re driving with no other adult passenger to help. Some of you may even consider cancelling or delaying the trip, and while we’re sure no one will blame you for it, it’s not an ideal solution. So, to help, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best ways to keep your toddler entertained for a smoother ride.
How to Be Prepared for a Car Journey with a Toddler
As with anything in parenthood, preparation is key. Some things you can do to help prepare for a car journey with a toddler include: Packing the night before. Packing/preparing drinks and snacks. Planning your route. Checking traffic before you leave. Finding suitable service stops along the way in case you or your toddler need a comfort break. Adjust the car seat and mirrors so you can easily see your child if necessary.
Ways to Keep Toddlers Entertained in Cars
In an ideal world, your toddler will simply sleep during the entire car ride (we can dream, right?) But depending on the time you leave and the length of the journey, it’s very unlikely that’ll happen. The good news is there are plenty of simple and inexpensive ways to keep your toddler entertained on a long car journey, making it much more stress-free for you.
Invest in Toys for the Car
For younger toddlers, investing in one or two toys for the car will keep them happily occupied. Our range of pram toys is perfectly suitable to use in the car too. Plus, they can be attached to your child’s car seat, so there’s no risk of them being dropped and lost, and your toddler can reach for the toys by themselves whenever they want to play.
Choose Colouring in Books
Bringing along a colouring-in book with some crayons or pencils can keep your toddler entertained for hours. It’s also a great way to encourage concentration, creativity and improve their fine motor skills. They may also find it relaxing!
Bring Food Along
Snacks are essential (for adults and children) for any road trip. A hungry parent and child in the car is a recipe for disaster. So stock up on some favourites and pack some snacks, for example, a few apple slices, some grapes, and a couple of biscuits or cheese, in our handy food storage pots for when they get peckish. We’d recommend avoiding any sticky foods, so you won’t have to deal with sticky fingers on the windows.
Put on some Music
Playing music your toddler likes, such as some nursery rhymes or an artist they’ve responded to positively before, can make the car journey fun for you and the little one. Have a sing-song together and a little boogie, and your little one will be thoroughly entertained.
Bring a Whiteboard and Pens
A whiteboard and some different coloured pens will not only keep them busy but get their creative juices flowing. From doodling and drawing bigger pictures to writing words or numbers, there’s plenty they can create before wiping it away and starting over.
Get Busy Books
Busy books are exactly how they sound, books to keep your child busy! Featuring multiple activities such as tying shoelaces, arranging numbers and learning how to use zips and buttons, it’s ideal for inquisitive children and helps develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Activity Cubes
An interactive activity cube is the perfect toy for car journeys as it’s compact, colourful and features plenty of small games to keep your little one entertained. From matching the shapes and answering the phone to playing with music and learning how to spin a wheel, the fun is endless.
If you’re going on holiday with a newborn or a younger toddler, check out our guide on baby packing essentials.
Need some more toy ideas to keep your little one busy while travelling? Browse our range of baby and toddler toys.
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