On the Road Again

Just like Willy Nelson, I could not wait to get on the road again.

After five years of marriage my husband and I had traveled to France, Florida, Missouri, Georgia, and the Caribbean. We had also taken many weekend trips around my husband's hectic work schedule.

That all changed January 16, 1992 - or so we thought.

The next three months were a blur; bottles, diapers, and lack of sleep, times two. When I finally returned to work, after twelve weeks, my life had drastically changed.

My husband and I did not venture on another vacation for seven years. By that time the twins were seven and our youngest was two.

I quickly learned how traveling with our youngest children could be fun, exciting and definitely not tiresome. With a family of five our preferred mode of travel is driving.

We make our hotel stops safe, fun, and exciting by following some simple rules, and, with minimal planning, easy.

Just remember that jumping up from your chair each time your toddler/preschooler reaches danger is exhausting!

1. Travel with a child proofing kit: electrical outlet covers, doorknob covers, string to tie cabinets closed and the number to the poison control center.

2. Don't open windows or trust the safety of screens; they can be pushed out by an assertive toddler.

3. Check the room for hazards, such as lamps that can pulled down, sharp edges on coffee tables, poison plants or throw rugs.

4. Check for small objects left by previous occupants in drawers, cabinets or under the nightstands or beds.

5. Take the knobs off of stoves and return them when needed.

6. Remove electrical cords that might be hazardous.

7. Remove chemicals from beneath the sink in the kitchen or bathroom.

Happy travels!

Gail Morris is the mother of four children. Her ideas are time tested and mother approved! If you want more information (printable games, checklists, emergency information, budget travel) or would like her semi-monthly free newsletter, Your Family Resources, visit http://www.YourEzBooks.com

Learning Activities For Your Baby

Books and Babies - For babies from age 6 weeks to 1 year Sharing books is a way... Read More

Fun Nursery Themes That Will Even Have Your Baby Talking!

There are many whimsical, fun baby room themes if you are planning on decorating a nursery. Infants need... Read More

Family Baby Showers

The addition of baby number 2, 3, or 10 is an occasion to celebrate for any family.Just think... Read More

10 Ways to Make Toilet Training Fun & Exciting

Blue & Yellow Make Green - Put a few drops of blue food coloring in the toilet and... Read More

Facts You Should Know About Baby Shower Etiquette

Whether you're hosting a baby shower for the first time or not, chances are you've got some questions... Read More

Baby Strollers Tips and Advice

You have just learned that you are expecting a bundle of joy and now you need to begin... Read More

Bye-Bye Bottle

It's finally time. My child is old enough to be drinking from a cup; a sippy, if not... Read More

Guide to Choosing Toddler Toys

The play has many more functions for toddlers than for adults. For toddlers, play is not just a... Read More

Childrens Backpack Safety and Comfort

One of the easiest and safest ways to carry your child around is via an infant carrier or... Read More

Baby Shower for Mom and the Ladies

Baby Shower for Moms who just wanna have fun! This type of baby shower is not the only... Read More

Perfect Baby Shower Idea List for Necessity Type Baby Gifts

Perfect Baby shower idea lists for necessity type baby gifts. By necessity type baby gifts, I mean items... Read More

A Surprise Baby Shower Can Be the Perfect Way to Celebrate

Throwing a surprise baby shower doesn't have to be difficult. In fact, it can be fun for all... Read More