A few years ago, I heard a speaker say, “I’d rather go to jail than travel in a car with my kids!” Summer is here, bringing with it many vacations…by car! If you share that speaker’s sentiments, perhaps this Nanny article will prove helpful.
Some kids continually misbehave in the car. Many parents respond by yelling, threatening, screaming, poking, swatting (as you almost sideswipe another car), and ultimately pleading. There is a better way!
Despite the fact that putting your child in a car seat is the law, many parents do not do it, or give the car seat up too soon. Most parents are aware of the safety benefits of car seats. But did you know that research shows it to be the single most effective way to control your child’s car behavior. A University of Kansas study found that children in car seats misbehaved or were disruptive only about 3 percent of the time. Children who were not in car seats misbehaved or were disruptive almost 96 percent of the time. Quite a difference!
Some other strategies for more peaceful family rides are:
· Reward appropriate behavior with verbal praise.
· Stop the car for a Time Out.
· Build in periodic breaks at rest stops, so they can burn off excessive energy.
· Stock up on simple car games, and participate in them.
· Let your children earn their vacation spending money by paying them for every 15-20 minutes of good behavior.
· Sing together.
Make a plan, and stick to it. This summer’s family vacation just may be the most relaxing one you’ve ever taken. Enjoy!
Linda Morgan; Parish Nanny