Traveling with children can be torture.
New images and sounds can be overwhelming for a toddler and holiday excitement can quickly turn into tantrums if you're not prepared.
Here are 10 tips practiced by parents to help make fun traveling with young children.
1. Choose an ideal destination for families. Skip the crowded tourist destinations and opt for a locale that is used to having children around.
2. Safety first! Always make sure car seat your child is safe. Also, the use of a removable window shade to help block the sun.
3. Entertainment Pack. "The best bets to entertain your child in the car and hotel room include favorite books, games and toys," says Nancy Wolpert Nickelodeon Home Entertainment. For all inclusive entertainment, she recommends two new DVDs that have a collection of favorite TV shows for children. "The Nick Jr. Favorites Nick Picks DVDs and keep them entertained for hours," Wolpert promises.
4. Plan rest stops. If you are driving, break up the monotony stopping every two hours (or more often if necessary). Children need to stretch after being locked in a car for a while. Consider bringing along a ball to kick or throw around during these breaks.
5. Be flexible. Set realistic expectations and let your child absorb the experience in your own pace. You may want to limit their activities to one a day. Otherwise, you could end up with a child over-stimulated.
6. Bring lots of water and snacks. Fruit, granola bars, juice boxes and mini cereal boxes small to large, healthy snacks.
7. Keep a beloved member. A blanket or a stuffed toy will help your child feel safe and secure. Ensure you have a spare on hand, too. This will save you some headaches should the original be lost.
8. Start and end the day early. Children are at their best in the morning, so plan accordingly.
9. Stick to your routine. Eat, nap and play at the same time each day may be all your child needs to feel comfortable in a new environment.
10. Take lots of pictures. They are only young once, so enjoy every moment!
(excerpted from a variety of sources)