Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in cincinnati, OH

...This Land is Your Land...

by Amy Mumper

June 14, 2009

Are you ready for summer??  What is your warm weather destination?  I'm hoping for your sake that you are indeed going somewhere, just to get away.  DH and I have scheduled two getaways without the kiddos (highly recommended!) but we'll be missing the good ‘ol trusty ROADTRIP!

As each of us prepares to enjoy summer, let's talk fun games and songs for your road trip.

I think I've said that I'm not a huge fan of kids' television and we purposely didn't get our car with a DVD player (no offense to those of you who did!)  J  But, an exception to our rule is road trips!  If you don't already have a DVD player, now might be the time to either 1) borrow one or 2) buy one.  I borrowed one from a friend for years (Thanks, J!) But, finally we coughed it up and bought our own - one with two screens!  It was worth it!  Each of The Littles gets to pick a few movies and takes a turn choosing. 

But, as you probably know, you can't watch the screen the whole time, lest they get bored!

Why not try some of the travel versions of classic games?  Just today I saw Trouble, Connect Four and we have Yahtzee and road bingo (sooo 80s! LOVE IT!)   Even if you're not following the rules and playing "like you're supposed to", being in close quarters is perfect time to work on counting, matching and the like.

If you're looking for songs, you must get all things Laurie Berkner.  She RULES!  Her songs are so catchy, yet lovable and they can lead to some wild imaginings and storytelling.  Friends have recommended Dan Zanes as well.  But - sorry to say - I don't' find him tons of fun....

I think structuring the time in the car is helpful.  Enforce a quiet-time sometime during your drive, particularly if it's a long one.  Everybody needs time to relax without others interrupting or getting in their space.

So, what's in your bag o' tricks?