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If you're heading out on a long road trip with your family this summer, there are a few things you should keep in mind, especially if you want to make the experience as stress-free as possible!
Being cooped up in a car together can test our limits, a new study by Renault has found.
More than a fifth (21%) of British adults surveyed in 2002 admit to having arguments over simple things, while 20% confess to fighting over their partner's driving and 25% admit to being more likely to fight when children misbehave on a journey. One in five say they struggle to keep their children entertained in the car.
So how can you avoid fights in the car and keep everyone happy during long trips? A relationship and parenting expert shares his top tips…
Let's make a plan together
“Before you even set off, involve your child in the preparation, which will make the journey itself more bearable,” says Matt Buttery, chief executive of the ‘positive parenting programme’ Triple P UK and Ireland and honorary associate professor at the University of Warwick.
“Talk to them about where they are going and how long it will take them to understand, plan with them what they would like to bring in the car for entertainment, or let them help you choose snacks or create the road trip playlist.
“If you can get them excited, this will continue throughout the trip. You should also consider planning the trip when your child is less likely to be hungry or tired. A less irritable child will be a more enjoyable experience for everyone.”
Create a playlist together
Relationship expert Persia Lawson agrees that music is one of the quickest ways to create a positive atmosphere.
“So why not consider creating a playlist before your trip, where everyone can contribute the same number of songs?” she says. “Then, you can put the playlist on shuffle, so that each person has an equal chance of hearing their favorite songs.”
Make regular pit stops
If you're taking a longer trip, plan regular breaks so your child (and you!) can get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and run around a bit.
“Rest breaks will also prevent the inevitable rush to find the nearest toilet when your child sounds the alarm. It is also an opportunity to refuel (not necessarily the car, but yourself), have a bite to eat or have a tea or coffee,” says Buttery. “As a driver and parent, it is just as important to look after yourself as it is your mood during the journey, which will set the tone for your passengers.”
The more stressed you are, the more agitated the children will be…
Lawson adds: “Inevitably, the more stressed you are, the more anxious your children will become, so take a break and take a break. For example, you might choose to stop for lunch somewhere nice, make a short detour to a museum, gallery or cultural experience.”
Bring lots of snacks
Snacks always help make a long trip more bearable. Lawson says, “Carry a bag with your favorite drinks and foods to make the trip a little more bearable. If you have young children, you may be able to offer them some healthy options, but also let them choose a sweet treat or two so they feel included in the planning.”
“It’s also a good incentive to keep them on their best behavior if they feel tempted to start misbehaving during the trip.”
Don't forget about games and entertainment.
“Keep the kids entertained, which in turn will help you ease into a well-earned break,” says Lawson. “Spending too much time in the car can inevitably be boring and monotonous, so turn the trip into an adventure by planning fun stops or mini cultural excursions before you set off.”
She says it's important to have games on hand, even if it's just the trusty iPads. And we all remember the classic car games like “I Spy.”
“Many families have their own variations of car games (perhaps the Rainbow Game or the Mini Game) that are simple and help pass the time. If you want to get more creative, you can create a quiz that is both fun and educational,” says Buttery. “For quieter moments, audiobooks or podcasts are great options and work even better if your child has headphones so they can listen to them alone.”
Take the opportunity to speak
Buttery says: “Long trips are also an opportunity to catch up with your child without distractions and talk about what’s going on with him, his friends and school.”
Lawson agrees, saying: “We all know that tensions can rise. [on long car journeys]But be careful with your tone and take the opportunity to have those meaningful conversations that you might not otherwise have. I think it’s easier when you’re in the car because you’re not face to face and no one can just get up and leave, so make the most of that time.”
