Tips for Chasing Away the “Are We There Yet” Blues

Quick… what are you better equipped to handle on a summer road trip, a flat tire or a backseat full of bored kids? 

Most parents would rather deal with a flat than a car full of whiny children.  If your vehicle doesn’t come equipped with a DVD player or you are embarking on a tech-free vacation then you might consider the following tried and true car games to keep things running smoothly on your next your road trip:

Twenty Questions

This classic car game requires one family member to think of a person, place or thing, while each of the other players has 20 questions to figure out what it is.  Keep in mind that all the questions must be answered with either a “yes” or “no.”

For Example:

Mom: Thinks of a person, place, or thing

Sam: Is it a place?

Mom: Yes

Susie: Is it a place we’ve been to?

Mom: Yes

Joe: Is it in California?

License Plates

Instead of having them stare at a computer screen for the entire ride to your favorite campsite have your kids look out your vehicle’s windows and attempt to identify license plates from all 50 states.  Also, have them keep their eyes peeled for states that have more than one type of license plate. It’s helpful to have a map to help you keep track of what states have already been identified.

Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are as fun to play in the car as they are around the neighborhood.  Before you leave home, prepare a list of things that can be easily spotted from your moving vehicle.  By preparing multiple lists you kids can play against each other. Also, bring along a little prize or offer to buy the winner a treat at the next rest stop so family members have an incentive to stay in the game.

Here are some ideas that can get you started on your list:

· American Flag

· RV

· Welcome signs

· McDonald’s

· Bridge

· Yellow VWs

· Cars with dogs in the backseat

· Orange semis

· Swimming pools

· Vehicles towing boats

· Mountains

See Also:

Tips for Keeping Kids Busy on the Road