On the Plane
Toddlers are more difficult to
keep seated in a single spot on a plane, and as such, you'll
have to make sure your carry on baggage includes enough to keep
your child occupied. Pack depending on the duration of the
flight - you'll need more toys and play things for a 22 hour
flight than a short 4 hour trip.
A portable DVD player is a
godsend when you're traveling. Pack some of his favorite videos,
and relax while he stares transfixed at the screen.
Play doh is easy to carry on
board and can provide a preschooler with enough entertainment
options.
A coloring book and crayons is
another great way to keep your toddler or preschooler
entertained. If you have more than one kid traveling with you
and one or two books won't do, just print out printable coloring
sheets available at a number of kids' websites, and bring these
on board.
Continuing with the art theme,
get a doodle board that's self cleaning - kids can spend hours
doodling, and them wiping them clean. It's no fuss and non
messy.
Many kids' travel sites offer
special travel kits and travel games for kids. Or bring along a
set of flashcards that have pictures of objects in them to be
matched with things that you see on the journey.
If there's more than one child
traveling with you, make sure he has his own back pack with all
the things necessary for his flight. They'll love to take things
out on their own, and put them back in the bag again.
A head set and a CD of his
favorite nursery rhymes is also ideal - your toddler will love
listening and singing along to familiar rhymes.
If you're traveling by car,
most of the toys mentioned above will work just as well. Plus,
the flexibility that you have when you're in your own
transportation makes it much easier for you to keep boredom
away. Include frequent breaks, so your kids can get out, smell
the fresh air and stretch their legs.
Play group games. I Spy is an
evergreen favorite, and there are plenty of things to spy when
you're on the road.
Include other activities like
looking for a particular alphabet on the road - on signs,
license plates etc. It can make for hours of fun. Sing songs as
a group, or make up some of your own!
