Thanks to advances intechnology, you can now have a DVD player fitted to your car. They even comestandard in some car models and it doesn't stop there. You can even get gamesconsoles fitted for PlayStation fans. So why frazzle your nerves trying to keepthe kids entertained when modern technology can do it for you.
Don't distract the driver
It is important to ensure thatthe DVD screens are fitted so that they are not visible to the driver. Thereare a number of ways DVD screens can be fitted to your car. They can fold downfrom the roof, be built into the back of the front seat headrests, or strap onto the back of the front seat headrests. However, recent studies have shownthat strap-on DVD screens can fly off in an accident and cause serious injuryto passengers. So, from a safety perspective, it's advisable to choose one ofthe first two options.
If you install a games consolein your car, select travelling games wisely. Calmer games will have a better affecton your child and the rest of your passengers. Hectic games could cause yourchild to jump around and bump or kick the driver.
Road safety
DVD players and games consoleswill keep your kids occupied on the journey providing fewer distractions forthe driver. They also help to keep the kids calm, which in turn reduces thestress on the driver allowing him/her to concentrate on the road rather thanentertaining bored children in the back.
If you are going to use musicto keep the kids happy, don't turn it up so loud that it distracts the driver.If there is a passenger travelling in the front seat, let them take charge ofchanging CDs, tapes or the radio station. If the driver is changing songs,ensure that he/she can do it quickly and easily.
Selective listening
If you and your kids agree todisagree on music, then an iPod or Walkman could help keep the peace. Storytapes are also great for keeping younger kids occupied.
Traditional tricks
If it all sounds too high techfor you, games that have been around since cars became the primary mode oftransport are still amusing youngsters today. There is I-spy, a number ofspotting games and a variety of quizzes to keep minds busy. There is even the ?quietgame? when you need some quiet time. The rules are very simple, the one whosits quietly the longest, wins! However, be warned that it doesn't hold theirinterest for long.
offers 101 car travelgames and road trip ideas for kids. There isa range of great ideas from in-car bingo to cow counting and even tips on howto avoid car sickness.
Feed their boredom
Load up with a range of snacksto help pass the time. However, do not load up with food and drinks high insugar. Not only is it unhealthy for your kids but it will make them even moreenergetic and fidgety.
Sleep through it
If the thought of driving indaylight gives you nightmares, you can always drive after dark. That way your kidscan sleep through the journey. Another option is to start very early in themorning. Your kids can sleep for a few hours in the car and when they wake up,you can stop for breakfast. This helps reduce the amount of ?awake? time foryour kids.
For complete peace of mind,ensure that you have the right car insurance before you set off.For a car insurance quote and moreinformation about the types of car insurance available from Direct Line, visit .
Brand has sinced written about articles on various topics from Constipation Causes, Insurance and Auto Insurance. Directline offers car insurance, home insurance and more. Visit http://www.direcltine.com to find out more.. Brand's top article generates over 110000 views. to your Favourites.
Best Paso Robles Wineries WHEN Year-round.WHY The area is easily accessible from L.A. or San Francisco and offers some of Californias best coastal scenery.