Are We There Yet? Part I

I've found this great book from Eileen Ogintz, and I just had to share some of the great ideas I got from it!

Some people book their next vacation, which is a repeat of the current one, while they are still on their vacation. It's always great to plan as far ahead as possible. You can even involve the kids by having them send away for the information, as well as help plan out the map directions, hotels, and restaurants.

Your kids can help you pack, or at least pick out the clothes, by putting them and their toys and whatnots on their bed or in a box from which you would transfer them to their suitcases. Then they can't complain about what they're taking! And, while you're thinking about clothes, make sure to have laundry facilities nearby your hotel or room. Travel toys and games, travel books, and travel bags are all necessities when traveling with the children.

Surprise items, wrapped or unwrapped, in a grab bag sort of thing, is a great diversion now and then from the long monotony of a long drive, flight, or trek. Always include, outside of the grab bag, water bottles, and snacks that aren't sticky or sugary, although lollipops are good options, especially when used as silencers!

Airplanes are certainly really good places to have snacks, grab bags, books, and other things I've mentioned. And, especially if you have younger kids, bring a change of clothes in their carry on in case they spill something. And, believe it or not, many kids do fly alone. They usually sit near the front with their toys and the staff look after them, and often the adults around even play games with them too. Younger kids can't make connections, and all kids must have someone meet them at the arrival airport.