Summer trips can be a lot of fun. However, most parents know that getting to your destination can also be a source of stress and anxiety, especially when traveling with young kids.
Here are a few tips to manage the crew and make your trip as stress-free as possible.
1. Take breaks
Nobody enjoys long days in the car, especially your kids. Plan ahead and make regular stops. If your kids are very young, this may be every hour, but with older children, try to stop at least every two hours so everyone can refresh. Want to nip the “are we there yet?” talk in the bud? Bring the Time Timer MOD® – Special Edition Tie-Dye or Time Timer PLUS® 120 Minute along for the ride! Set the timer and place it in the center console for everyone to see when you will stop next. This visual timer will help the whole family process your travel plans and incessant whining will be a thing of the past.
2. Stay clean
Teaching kids to wash their hands and clean up after themselves is no easy task. Maintain your hygiene routines from home so you don’t have to relearn them all over again. Personal hygiene can be even more important when out on the road. Using rest stop facilities, campground bathrooms, and hotel rooms may introduce your family to more germs than you’re used to at home. Need help making hand washing easier for your kids? Add the Time Timer® WASH to your collection. Great for use at home and on the road, the WASH breaks down hand washing into three steps of lathering up, scrubbing, and rinsing hands as distinct functions to keep the kids focused on keeping clean.
3. Take your Time Timer everywhere
Kids love to be able to visually see time. It helps them understand a concept that tends to be difficult for them to conceptualize. For a visual timer that comes with you wherever you go, check out the Time Timer Watch PLUS®. With multiple modes, it functions like a standard watch while also allowing you to pull up a built-in Time Timer. It’s the perfect timer when you’re on-the-go or if you’re looking to pack less for a trip, the Time Timer Watch PLUS makes your Time Timer available for all your needs, all the time.
Summer travel with your family is a great way to explore the world around you and create memories you will all cherish. We hope these tips help reduce your stress and anxiety around travel so you can spend time together and enjoy the adventure!