Being stuck in a car for hours with children can be a nerve-wracking experience. Here are the best responses to keep them entertained and quiet before you reach your destination.
“No darling, we’ll be there in 7 hours and 33 minutes”
Tell them the truth and be clear about the duration of the trip instead of swearing you’ll get there soon. So, how about using an app that will flag up any traffic jams and unnecessary detours?
“Who wants their favourite snacks?”
Your children will be so thankful to eat snacks that are not usually allowed. And if you decide to layover en route to check out a restaurant, make sure it’s a kid-friendly place.
“Mr Blankie wants a cuddle”
Whether it’s his old comforter blanket or their dummy, you’ll be glad you haven’t put them in the boot when your child starts screaming with exhaustion or boredom.
“Who is the best singer in this car?”
You might have to endure some annoying kids’ songs that will make offend your music-lover ears. But if you are really lucky, you will all enjoy the same music and you will have a fantastic time singing your heart out.
“Let’s play a game”
Our favourite? “Would you rather?” Imagine the endless philosophical debates and giggles. So would you rather be without elbows or without knees? Or would you rather have 500 tarantulas crawling in your house or 1,000 crickets jumping around your room? Yep, that’s a tough one.
“Low battery is not the end of the world”
If you have teenagers on board, they will probably have their phone glued to their hand. Make sure you have a couple of external portable battery chargers. Your sanity depends on it.
“Of course I brought the tablet. I’m not mad”
If everything else fails, take out the family tablet. You’ve shown the patience of a Tibetan monk. There’s nothing wrong with asking for a little help from a device capable of calming your high-maintenance child.
