What the parents say
By AIMÉE BLANCHETTE
Parents of the well traveled mini-experts had their own tips for a peaceful trip:
On long trips, stop every two to three hours no matter what. Everyone gets out.
Spend the night at a hotel with a pool and the Disney Channel.
Have plenty of snacks on hand.
Make an activity box for each kid and fill it with games, crafts and their favorite things.
Google "travel games" and print off your own sheets for games like travel bingo or I Spy.
Take turns picking out movies or audio books. Or decide using rock, paper, scissors.
Limit the use of iPods and electronic games.
Embrace the road trip for what it is. Keep the windows open and listen to local radio.
Set some rules: Don't distract the driver and don't ask, "Are we there yet?"
Kids have the most fun at offbeat restaurants, gas stations and tourist stops.
Give toddlers a roll of Scotch tape for hours of entertainment.
Pack surprises to hand out to well-behaved kids once a day.
Arrange kids in seats based on their personalities.
Plan ahead, but be flexible. Anything can and will happen.
about the writer
AIMÉE BLANCHETTE
And they are separated into categories for your snacking convenience.