14 hour drive with 3 kids!! Help!?

Question

In June we will be vacationing in the OuterBanks. It will take us 14 hours to get there. We will be making this trip in one day. I have a an 11-year old daughter, a 2 year-old son, and a 1-year old son. I am looking for any suggestions on how to make the trip go as "cry-free" as possible! Also, does anyone know of where I can purchase some items for the car such as a head rest (for when the kids are sleeping) or possibly a tray for the car seat? Thanks!

Answer 1

I've done a lot of long drives myself when I was little, now I'm older so it's easier to entertain myself. Here are some tips:
-food, this is always good, bring a large variaty of healthy snacks
-toys, have your kids bring their favorite toys
-cds, music as well as books on tape, stories

Answer 2

here's a list of possible things to do:

- books on tape
- coloring books
-poratble DVD player
- food
- car games: 20 questions, memory, story times
- sleep--my favorite
- lisence plate: keep a list of alll the cars you see that are from different states. (keeps the kids look out of the window and eventually helps them fall asleep)
- reading a book? - sometimes gives a headache but worht a try
- talking on the phone (for the 11 year old)
- for the babies perhaps electronic games such as leap frog things, and some other baby toys.. . i'm not too fmailiar with baby toys.
- music is always fun - sing alongs can be fun -
- crossword puzzles (for 11 year old)

i think the babies u won't have to worry too much about, but the 11year old might give some trouble. I'm guessin should be like some attention but due your attention with the other two she might be a little lonelier.

hope this helps

Answer 3

Start after dinner and drive through the night. The kids will sleep thorough most of it.
Those headrest type items rare usually found in flight magazines. Sharper Image may have them at their retail stores but I dont know if the would be suitable for small children

Answer 4

Traveling at night would be easiest, but I don't know where to buy the head rest. Try small pillows. We play "Flag" with our grandkids. They have to watch out windows at houses and buildings and yell "Flag" when they see one. Try to keep count and see who wins. Portable dvd and cd players with earphones is good with kids.If your 11 year old is willing, maybe she can read to the small ones. Coloring books won't last long and make sure you don't leave colors in car. They will melt. Singing is fun too . Have fun.