If you have young children, chances are you already know how difficult longer road trips can be. Kids can be a handful during extended car journeys, but being prepared with child-friendly activities can make hearing “are we there yet?” a thing of the past.
Auto Insurance Calgary: Before You Hit the Road…
The first thing you should do before departing on any extended car trip is make 100 per cent sure your child’s car seat is safe and secure. Despite clear guidelines and comprehensive manufacturer’s instructions, some estimates suggest that as many as 70 per cent of all child car seats are incorrectly installed. Don’t risk your child’s safety. Take a moment to make sure his or her car seat is properly and safely positioned.
Next, pack some emergency supplies, including:
- Extra food and drinking water
- A fully charged spare cell phone in case you need to call for help
- A first aid kit
- A flashlight and vehicle flares or reflective triangles
Auto Insurance Calgary: Fun Games to Play during Road Trips
You don’t have to buy expensive toys and technologies to keep your kids entertained on a road trip. In fact, there are virtually limitless options when it comes to fun and educational games to play while you’re on the road.
If your kids are creatively inclined – and most children are – bring along notebooks and sketch pads. Encourage your children to draw pictures and write stories inspired by the things you pass during your journey. It helps keep kids engaged with their unfamiliar surroundings while giving them a productive, wholesome activity to while away the time.
All kinds of math and number-based games are applicable to travel, as well, from encouraging kids to estimate the cost of meals and the tips to adding up the change you should receive from roadside purchases. License plate games are also a tried-and-true favourite. See which of your children can spot plates from all 10 Canadian provinces, for example, or get them to spot every different letter of the alphabet from the license plates you see during your journey.
Finally, be sure to stock up on travel-sized versions of popular board games. Crossword puzzles, sticker books and word searches are also great choices that engage kids of all ages.
Here are some other time-tested tips and tricks to make long car trips less burdensome:
- Encourage your kids to help you at every step of the way, from loading and unloading the car to finding streets and highway interchanges
- Bring plenty of snacks to preempt complaints about hunger
- Consider audiobooks and e-readers for older children
- Plan to make frequent short stops to prevent fatigue and give your kids an opportunity to stretch and get some fresh air
Auto Insurance Calgary: When All Else Fails…
Of course, we’re living in a technologically driven age, and digital devices offer a dazzling array of entertainment options. However, they can be expensive, so don’t go beyond your means just to keep your kids quiet during a car ride. If all else seems to fail, start with some simple handheld video and quiz games.
If a DVD player could mean the difference between peace and quiet and an unbearable ordeal, consider renting or borrowing one, or bringing along a laptop computer to serve as a makeshift television/disc player. This will save you some money while allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of an in-car entertainment system.
Auto Insurance Calgary: Discover the Lane’s Insurance Difference
Lane’s Insurance is a leading independent Alberta-based insurance brokerage. Because our agents work for you, not for the insurance company, you are guaranteed to receive the best possible protection for the best possible rates. We work hard to provide you with lots of options, and we always deliver value-added service in the event that you need to file a claim.
In addition to auto insurance, Lane’s also offers complete commercial, home, farm and specialty coverage packages. You can also enjoy big savings by bundling your home and auto insurance together through Lane’s.
If you’d like a fast, free quote on auto insurance, please visit Lane’s Insurance online. Of course, we’re always happy to help you if you require more in-depth assistance. Please contact us if you have any questions about your current coverage, or if you want to learn more about our insurance products.
