“It’s not the destination. IT’S THE JOURNEY” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Summer break is only a couple of months away! Are you planning a vacation? Have you considered a road trip? I realize that gas is expensive, but air travel is costly also. However, a road trip can be fun and educational if you have the time. You can stop at historic sights, beautiful vistas, and places of interest.
My family liked to take rides; we went to many places and saw many things. I have never enjoyed road trips. I want to go someplace, stop, and stay a while! However, my family enjoyed them.
Both sets of my grandparents lived in other towns. One set lived two hours away and the other 4 or 5 hours away. We often went to see them and had to find ways to entertain ourselves on the trip. My parents kept us entertained. We sang songs, and my dad always had funny songs and stories. In addition, we played games, such as the License Plate game (how many license plates from other states could you find), 20 Questions, and I Spy With My Little Eye.
We did not have car seats or seat belt laws in my childhood. My brother and I were able to fight and play freely. Neither of us liked the other touching our side of the seat, and as brother and sister, we wanted to harass the other one. At one time, we had a Datsun station wagon. We were able to put down the seat and play in the back of the car. I don’t know if we could be harnessed in a car seat for many hours. (I realize that car seats are safer and prevent deaths in an accident.)
As much as I complained and grumbled when we would go for rides, I have fond memories of our time as a family.
Genius Ways to Keep Your Kids Busy on Road Trips
1. Turn your backseat into a movie theater.
2. Pack a treasure chest.
3. Bring kid-friendly audiobooks.
4. Download versatile apps.
5. Turn snacking into an activity.
6. Try Road Trip Bingo.
7. Play (fun) educational games.
8. Plan pit stops in advance.
I encourage you to take some time, enjoy nature, and go for a ride!
