When you have little ones, you can’t just jump into the car and GO!  You need to do a little planning and preparation before you take off for a week-long trip to see the grandparents or even when you go to the store a mile down the road.  Here are 5 timely tips that will help your summer travels with preschoolers go more smoothly.

1. Pack a small backpack for your young child…it could include his special stuffed animal and/or small comfort blanket, favorite toy, book, one change of clothes (just in case there is an “accident” or major spill…you won’t have to start going through suitcases), a small zip-lock bag with his favorite dry cereal (or mix of small crackers, pretzels and cereals…see below for a GREAT recipe your child will enjoy preparing with you) for emergency munching.
2. Pack a first aid/medicine bag (in a medium zip-lock bag) that will fit into your purse so that it will be handy at a moment’s notice.  Include in it band-aids, antiseptic ointment, and any medications your family takes (labeled carefully as to dosage), as well as important phone numbers such as your child’s doctor.
3. If traveling by car, pack a small cooler with juice boxes, water bottles, packaged snacks such as cheese and crackers and/or peanut butter and crackers, granola bars and fruit.  A box of crackers and a tube of squirt cheese in the hands of an adult can entertain a young child who first requests a particular letter or design and then eats it.  Use small sandwich bags to hold clean, wet washcloths…very refreshing for wiping hot faces and dirty hands, especially if you keep them in the cooler.
4. Pack a special box or bag with new little surprises…each gift-wrapped with plenty of tape and ribbon…to be opened when spirits need a lift, whether in your car or wherever you are staying…the opening will provide a few moments of peace and your child will look forward to this special treat.
5. Take along a plug-in nightlight if your child will be sleeping (and perhaps waking up) in a strange room.

Traveling with little ones takes a little more preparation…but what a joy to see the world through their new and innocent eyes!

TRAVELING TRAIL MIX

You will need: 2 cups corn chex, 2 cups rice chex, 2 cups wheat chex (or 6 cups of your favorite dry cereal…pops, cheerios, etc), 1 cup mixed nuts (or melba toast rounds if your child has a nut allergy), 2 cups thin stick pretzels, 1 Tb margarine, 2 tsp soy sauce or Braggs Aminos, 13x9x2 inch baking dish.

• Melt margarine, mix with Braggs Aminos or soy sauce and pour into baking dish.
• Add cereals, pretzels, and nuts or toast, mix thoroughly to coat and microwave on high for 3 minutes…one minute at a time.
• Stir and continue to heat, one minute at a time, until evenly toasted.
• Makes about 3 quarts.  Store in an airtight container.