THE WELL-TRAVELED TODDLER

TIPS AND TECHNIQUES TO FOREVER BANISH THE “ARE WE THERE YET?” WHINE

The Well-Traveled Toddler If the thought of boarding a plane, train or car
with your kids is enough to make you want to
lock yourself in your home until your kids leave
for college, think again. Believe it or not, traveling
with your brood can actually be enjoyable as long
as you anticipate—and make plans to avert—any
potential pitfalls that may occur en route to your
destination. With a little planning, organization and creativity, you may find that you’ll experience a trip so easy, you’ll actually look forward to your next one. Below, find our must-follow tips for a successful, stress-free voyage.

Pre-trip planning is an essential step in ensuring your children’s happiness both while traveling and after you’ve arrived. Spend time reading guidebooks and informational websites to research the interesting places for kids at your destination, printing out maps, telephone numbers and any ticket information. Avoid packing mistakes—who can forget the time they forgot the blankie?—by making a spreadsheet of items to pack. This way, you can be sure to remember all those little items required for traveling with kids. For every trip, you’ll save time and stress by simply printing out your packing list and loading the items into your suitcase. Just make sure you update the list periodically so that you stay on top of everyone’s needs. While en route, carry a bag that allows you easy access to all the essentials—diapers, wipes, toys, a change of clothes (for you and the kids), etc.—so everything you need is right there with you.

Traveling with kids is very unpredictable: You never know when something is going to go wrong or take extra time. Therefore, arrive with time to spare; you’ll have numerous options to keep your kids busy. Airports are very interesting places for young kids, with lots to see and lots of space to roam. This not only makes arriving early and exploring much more appealing, it also tires them out before having to sit for long periods of time. To ensure a tear-free trip, plan travel times around your child’s temperament. Try to schedule departure and arrival times for when your kids will have been fed and rested—they will undoubtedly be more patient and flexible. Most kids are at their crankiest toward the end of the day and often end up having a very difficult time falling asleep when overtired.

If you’re traveling by plane, the key to curbing your child’s crying and complaining is ensuring your child’s comfort and entertainment. If possible, purchase your child his or her own seat on the plane—it’s safer, more restful for parents and is less annoying to fellow passengers. If this is not possible, arrive early to check in, and ask the flight attendants at the gate if they can switch your seat to accommodate an extra seat for your child. Many are moms or dads themselves, so they understand. However, even those who aren’t parents are happy to oblige, as it creates a more pleasant environment for everyone. If your child is still in a car seat, you can bring it on the plane and set it right on the seat, which will free up your hands and provide your child with a place to sleep.

Don’t give children lots of sugary treats before embarking on your destination. Sugar and kids in a compact space don’t mix well, so bring healthy snacks that are individually packed in baggies—things like crackers, grapes or pretzels. If you must bring a treat, save it for the end of the trip when kids tend to get the most fidgety, perhaps offering it as a reward for good behavior.

Always keep your children seated when traveling in a moving vehicle, train or plane. Not only is it safer, but they learn that rides are for sitting (except for bathroom breaks, of course). This will set a good precedent for their behavior on future trips. To keep them entertained, bring along books, games, toys or art supplies. You might even consider purchasing a portable DVD player and bring along an assortment of their favorite movies. Remember to bring extra batteries for any personal electronic devices. Regardless of the entertainment option you choose, be courteous to fellow passengers by keeping noise to a minimum. Though you’ve probably learned to tune them out, musical toys and loud games can be extremely disturbing to other passengers.

With a little planning and a lot of patience, traveling with your children can be a stress-free endeavor. By following these tips, you’re one step closer to ensuring that the journey is a pleasant one.

—Chelsea Kaplan