Success with Part 1 of this series??
Well here are some more tips to further enhance the quality of the family discussions you have prior to extended road trips…
Discussion pointers:
- What needs to be done before we leave?
Make the list together, and have each family member choose a task. Such as, make the lunch; create the route map; research a hotel to stay at - Pre-plan activities for the car journey. What CDs or DVDs should we bring to listen to or watch in the car? Or would it be a better idea to bring personal music/media players?
- How frequent should stops be? Plan outlets for your high energy child for both in the car and during the stops. Talk over how it feels when your body is ready for a break or a change. This can prevent your children from taking these feelings out on each other.
- Where should we stop to eat or what should we pack for food and beverages?
- How to handle the inevitable conflicts between kids in the car. Review the child's options when faced with an annoying sibling - ie. use their words, ignore the behaviour, ask an adult for help. Let them know what you'll do, should they not get along in the car - ie. pull over to the side of the road until things settle down.
- And the most exciting discussion -What are we going to do when we get there?!
By taking the time to pre-plan and involve family members, there will be fewer surprises and fewer disruptions.
Some supporting thoughts on Family Meetings:
· Parents report these meetings are fabulous ways for them to teach important life skills - such as organization, resourcefulness, negotiating, compromise, etc.
· As families learn how to hold these meetings and practice this regularly, the effort required is greatly reduced!
Part 3 of this series: TIPS on what to do if (when) problems arise in the car…
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