Entertained Kids= Smooth Sailing

This does require some pre-thought and planning. 

Weeks before our trip, I have 2 small tubs that I pack with craft supplies separated in ziplock bags. 
Things like-
Paper
Chenile stems
Large plastic gems
Wiggle eyes
foam or wood craft shapes
pom poms
beads
trim
etc.

Pack adhesives that are not messy such as
Glue Dots
Sticky Boards
Glue stick
Tape
Also pack markers, pencils, color books etc. 

During our trip we have quiet time several times where the craft supplies are taken out and worked on.  I have a kitchen timer that I use to time the children.  When it goes off, They are rewarded by treats or pulling over to eat at places like McDonalds, etc. 

When not working on crafts, we play family travel games such as I spy, and sing songs. 

I have traveled with both my chidren by myself for 800 miles, and this made the trip run smoothly. 

Comments

[Botanikas]

Just buy a PSP :)

[dawgsmorgan]

In the picture, do the plastic bins slide out and open up after you take them out? They look really neat but I have not seen any just like these. If you do not mind me asking...what brand are they and where were they purchased?
Love your ideas!!!

[crymsunblue]

I couldn't tell you the name brand as I purchased them quite awhile ago. But I either got them from the container store, or Storage Solutions store (in portland, oregon).

[tqwerty]

I LOVE your organization in the labeled bins.

Though I am not sure glue sticks aren't considered messy...

Do small things like these ever get lost around the car?

[crymsunblue]

Thanks! The glue sticks and the smaller sequins etc aren't that bad, because the lap desk I have for them has small built in trays on the top for pencils etc. Also the smallest thing I have in the baggies are about 3/4" diameter. I try not to divy out too much for a single sitting.