Quick Tips For Traveling With Kids

My husband and I recently traveled to Seattle from San Diego which seemed manageable. The flight’s barely two hours. Piece of cake, right? But don’t forget there is the journey to the actual plane. Driving to the airport, the shuttle from parking and the always-fun security line. The breakdown of a stroller, shoe removal and the 20-minute analysis of applesauce pouches (all the while receiving dagger eyes from fellow passengers who just want to GET THROUGH) is enough to send me into anxiety fits. Finally we are on the airplane and have the pleasure of being trapped with two adults, a three-year-old and a 17-month-old in economy class. Did I mention the youngest one is in a leg cast? Thankfully my husband is willing and able to get us through these situations. He puts his head down and just works. I on the other hand do all the prep work (packing, preparing snacks, providing plenty of diapers, etc) and then pray.

For those of you traveling this summer with little ones I have a few ideas to help you arrive to your destination as stress-free as possible. What cocktail you need after getting there is up to you!

Usborne Activity Books
For older toddlers and preschoolers the Usborne line of sticker and activity books are the best. My older son really enjoys these and although it requires some adult help, a couple new ones for take off and landing when electronics are not allowed is key. Our particular favorites are the Little Boys’ Activty Book or Pirates Stickerbook. A fresh box of crayons helps too.

Crayola Color Wonder Books & Markers
These mess-free markers are truly a wonder. For children discovering their inner Picasso, hand them a couple of these along with a Color Wonder coloring book and rest your weary head. No worries about graffiti on the tray tables or you.

Magformers Building Tiles
Although this building toy is targeted for ages six and up toddlers find them fascinating. My 17-month-old would snap these square and triangle shaped magents together over and over again. These are a bit pricey but if they buy five minutes of peace they are worth every penny.

Do I even have to mention a tablet and headphones? This is obvious. Even if you have strict rules about electronics or screen time I say put a moratorium on those restrictions and allow a movie or two on the way to funland.

Remember sometimes in life its the journey that matters not the destination! Any tips for how to entertain kids on long car rides or flights? Please post below. And safe travels!

Back To (Pre)School Must Haves

It is has been nearly one year since my last post.  That’s not saying much about my blogging dedication is it?  If its any sort of excuse I did have a baby this year (seven months ago) and adjusting to life with him and his rambunctious older brother who just turned three has taken some time.  Now that Labor Day is past us marking the official end to summer, essentially fall and “the new year” has begun.  I believe September to feel more like a new year than January.  Something about the beginning of a school year and end to carefree days of summer seem like a fresh start.  That feeling has never been so true as it is this year since my oldest entered preschool.  His first day was this past week.  So far its looking good! No tears, tantrums or notes home (yet).  A three-year-old going to school two mornings a week doesn’t really warrant a brand new back-to-school wardrobe but I couldn’t resist a few new things to mark this next step.  Here is a round up of my top three preschool must-haves.

Tea Collection Surplus Playwear Pants.  Tea Collection is my favorite line of children’s clothing.  Its durable with quirky, world-inspired designs prints; although a little on the pricey side totally worth it for the quality and resale value! The Surplus Playwear Pant is a staple for any rowdy boy (and mine really puts it to the test).

Skip Hop Backpack.  These popular animal backpacks are just so for good reason.  They are super cute and the perfect size for preschoolers.  Not too small, not too big.  Kind of like the Goldilocks of kiddie bags.

Oliver’s Labels.  Kids seem to have lots of stuff:  sippy cups, extra clothes, snack traps, books, loveys.  Once they go to school its a free for all with keeping everything straight for moms and teachers.  Oliver’s Labels are the perfect way to keep your child’s things from getting lost or mixed up.  I first purchased their “starter pack” over two years ago and have yet to have a label wash off or have one come apart through hundreds of dishwashing and loads of laundry.