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5 Ways to Keep Your Kids Entertained on Long Rides

a winding road amidst a green forest
Are you going on a road trip with the family this summer? Well, you won't have to dread the arguing and complaining that usually comes from the back seat with these five methods for keeping the kids entertained on long car rides.
  1. Listen to Audio Books

You can't always reach your favorite radio station, especially once you leave town. Not to mention that listening to the same old songs can get a little boring after a few hours on the road. This is when it's time to break out the audio books. Listening to a good book together while you drive helps to pass the miles in an enjoyable way. It has the added benefit of giving the group something to talk about in between bouts of listening. Find a good audio book that the whole family will love, and create a whole new traveling tradition.
  1. Bring Snacks

It's strange that no matter what time of day it is, kids are hungry. Which is why having some healthy snacks, and maybe a few special treats, handy is one of the best ways to keep kids distracted when you're on a long trip. Carrot sticks, dried fruit, granola bars, and pretzels are just a few of the types of road snacks kids and grownups alike can enjoy in the car. Don't forget to have a supply of water with you to keep everyone hydrated. Try to avoid soda and other sugary beverages, as they will make for more bathroom stops along the way.
  1. Make Pit Stops

Making pit stops is always a good idea when driving long distances; however, when kids are in the car, this becomes even more so. Kids are less cranky and irritable if they can get and run around, even if it's just for a few minutes at a rest area. Although, if you can plan an interesting stop to help break up the drive, both you and your kids will have a much better road trip experience.
  1. Create a New Road Trip Playlist
Before you head off on your long car ride, create a new road trip playlist. Let each member of the family choose a few of their favorite songs, and then, use your Ford's infotainment system to blast the tunes through the sound system. Everyone will have fun singing along to the music, and you'll create some great family memories too.
  1. Play Games

There are lots of road trip games you can play as a family when you're in the car. Get a pad of Mad Libs for some silly, educational fun or try road bingo, where everyone has to look for things as you drive and mark them off as they find them. You can also get a map and let kids draw the route you take to help them keep track of where you are and build excitement as you near your destination. Keeping your kids entertained on long drives can be challenging. Try these tips and tricks the next time you're packing up for a road trip to make the drive part of the adventure.
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