Surviving Long Car Rides with Your Toddler

When I say a long drive, I mean a long drive

Taking a long car ride with a toddler can feel like embarking on an epic adventure filled with unpredictable twists. While the journey itself can be exciting, keeping your little one entertained for multiple hours is a whole different ball game.

We are currently living in Gothenburg, which is Sweden's second biggest city located in the south west part of the country. Neither of the grandparents live very close. My family lives in Maribor, Slovenia which is 1700 km away so we usually fly there. But this is a story for some other time. My partners parents live in the north of Sweden almost 1000 km away and there you can't really fly but it takes almost 11 hours to drive if you don't make any stops. And with a toddler in a car we all know not stopping is not an option.

Sometimes we actually make a strategic decision to sleep over somewhere halfway up and that makes our lives much easier, but even if you drive only 5 hours, you have to keep your child entertained otherwise you can expect chaos. So here I come with some toys that have made my life A LOT easier when spending a lot of time in a car.

• Montessori busy Book: This one is fantastic for distractions. It has so many different options to keep your child busy. And as they grow they will learn to operate different parts of it.

• ABC sound pad: Simple but interactive, my little one cannot get bored. You can adjust the sound and each animal will provide you with a different melody. Really entertaining!

• JOYIN baby telephone and remote control: Buttons to press and sound to listen to. A fun distraction that can be very useful if your little one likes pressing various buttons!

• Toy vehicles - Vomii monster trucks: Kids love to mimic adult behavior. A small set of toy cars or trucks can lead to imaginative play, as your child races them across the seat.

These toys can capture your toddler’s attention for a considerable amount of time, allowing you to focus on driving and enjoying the scenery. However, it’s essential to mix things up regularly, so they don’t get bored with the same set of toys. My son will often just drop the toy and demand a new one by complaining.

Interactive Activities for the Road

Aside from toys, consider incorporating some interactive activities that you can do together. Here are just some fun ideas to integrate into your road trip if your child is old enough of course:

• Sing-alongs: Put on your toddler’s favorite songs or nursery rhymes. Singing together can create a joyful atmosphere, and they may even request repeats!

• Road trip games: Play classic games like “I Spy” or “Counting cars.” These games can engage their imagination and sharpen their observation skills.

• Storytelling: Take turns making up stories or continuing the plot of a well-known tale. This can be a great way to foster creativity while keeping them entertained.

Engaging with your toddler through these activities not only entertains them but also strengthens your bonding experience during the journey.

Planning For Breaks: A Necessity

Lastly, planning for breaks is crucial on long drives. Schedule regular pit stops to let your toddler stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Whether it’s at a rest area, a park, or even a quick stop for snacks, these breaks can help your little one reset and avoid feeling restless. Incorporating stretching exercises or a mini scavenger hunt around the area can also add excitement during your breaks.

While longer car drives with toddlers can be quite the challenge, they don’t have to be a chore. With the right toys, some interactive activities, and well-timed breaks, both you and your child can enjoy the journey. Happy travels!