Try to reuse things you would normally recycle

You can save a lot of money by reusing items for craft kits, instead of buying them new. Here are just a few things that can be repurposed for toddler craft use.

• Mint tins: Metal tins are good for storing things like crayons or tiny pom-poms.
• Cardboard tubes: The tubes that toilet paper, paper towels, and wrapping paper come wrapped around can be decorated, re-shaped and used as stamps, or even taped together to make pretend binoculars.
• Plastic baby wipe containers: These aren’t just good for holding wipes. Once they’ve dried, they can store things like crayons, stamps, and markers.
• Tins: If they have a lid, these are great for storing supplies.
• Tupperware: If you’re not using it, good old fashioned Tupperware is great for storing craft items.

Stock up on toddler-friendly craft materials

Of course, there are some craft supplies you may need to go out and purchase. If you can wait, try to go to these stores after holidays, because there will likely be some sales this time of year. Regardless of when you go, once you’re there, here are some things to look for.

• Sticky things: Colorful scotch tape, stickers, googly eyes are great for decorating, while making less mess than paints or glitter
• Markers and ink: Stamps and stamp-pads, color pencils, crayons, washable markers
• Paper items: Colored tissue paper, colored construction paper, foam sheets
• Hands-on tactile stuff: Pipe cleaners, small containers of playdough, small pom poms
• To avoid: You’d be hard-pressed to find a parent who supports packing glitter into a craft kit. Unless you want glitter to cover every inch of your car, try to avoid it when making a craft kit for traveling. Paints also make better stationary craft tools than on-the-go ones

Spend some time packing and cleaning up

Once you have a reasonable amount of craft materials, you’re ready to assemble a craft kit for Baby. It might seem tedious to work on this before a big trip – especially when you probably have your own things to pack – but this preparation will definitely pay off in the long run. Once you’re all at the airport or in the car, you really don’t want to deal with things like scissors getting taken away at airport security, or glue getting all over a car seat.

Once the trip is over, go over the kits with Baby to make sure that everything gets put away at the end of the trip. This means marker caps are on, glue lids are shut tight, scraps are recycled or thrown away, and anything else that would extend the craft kit’s life gets done.

Don’t make things too structured

It’s good to have some structure and ideas planned ahead of time, but at this age, Baby just needs some items that will keep their interest on what could be a fairly boring car ride or plane ride. Sure, there’s always the thrill of being in totally new surroundings, but that might not last for more than an hour (or even half an hour).

Craft kits can be a good way to ensure that if Baby needs entertainment during the trip, they has some options that will be fun and interesting, but will encourage creativity, as well.

Sources

• Claire Lerner and Rebecca Parlakian. “From Baby to Big Kid: Month 22.” ZerotoThree. ZERO TO THREE: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families, May 2016. Web.

Still, there are places to go and people to see, and Baby will benefit from the adventure – and with a little luck, you could, too. Here are some tips for tackling a road trip without feeling like you’re running on empty.

Do your research

Planning the trip itself is just the beginning. Long before you leave, it’s important to start mapping out your journey. It’s a good idea to make stops every few hours so Baby can stretch their legs, which may be something to consider as you think about different routes. Seek out areas that have something kid-friendly to offer, such as a park or stretch of grass, or restaurants with play areas. This will allow Baby to blow off some steam after being cooped up in the car.

Safety first

Parents want their children to be comfortable in the car, but it’s more important to make sure they’re safe. Before leaving, double-check that Baby‘s car seat is installed according to the instructions in the manual. If you’re not sure if the car seat is installed correctly, or you’re moving to a different size, someone at the fire station might be able to help you out with installation, though not all firefighters are trained in car seat installation. It can also be helpful to research the laws in any different states you’ll be traveling through. While some allow car seats to be forward-facing at age 1, others will require rear-facing seats until age 2, for safety reasons. It’s also important to make sure you have a roadside assistance plan in place in the event of an emergency, and pack an extra car charger so your phone will be ready to use at all times.

Pack snacks

The last thing you’ll want part way through a long trip is to hear “hungry!” from the back seat and not have a snack to offer. Packing up a few of Baby’s favorite healthy snacks, then doubling the usual amount they would normally eat during the time you’ll be traveling is a great way to prevent that scenario. You won’t be able to predict things like traffic jams or detours, so it’s better to have a little extra to eat on hand just in case. Crackers, dried fruit, and snack pouches pack easily, keep for a long time, and make great traveling companions.

Keep busy

It may be tempting to throw on a DVD or hand over the iPad, but since prolonged screen time isn’t recommended at this age, it’s a good idea to have other materials on-hand to help pass the time. Mess-free coloring pages, sticker books, and travel-sized magna doodles will entertain them without giving them the chance to make a mess of the car.

Offer prizes

As Baby becomes more verbal, they will likely want to spend some of the trip chatting with you. Encourage them to use their words as you travel by asking them to identify objects they sees out the window. Pack up a “reward bag” full of special toys and treats to offer them as a prize.

Plan for toddler transport

A portable stroller can be a lifesaver in an airport, whether you find yourself racing to the gate for a quick connecting flight or trying to keep Baby asleep during a long layover. Until your child weighs more than 40 pounds and can use an airline seatbelt, it’s also important to bring a car seat that’s marked as FAA-approved for use while in-flight and for ground transportation.

Dress for ease and comfort

While you may love the idea of meeting Grandma at baggage claim with Baby wearing that special outfit she bought, think again if the garment isn’t completely comfortable. An already-long flight will drag on for an eternity if your toddler fusses due to itchy lace, bunched up tights, or clunky snaps or buttons from takeoff to landing.

Even if Baby has been a potty-training superstar, training pants or a diaper for the length of the flight can be a great way to avoid disaster, as they will inevitably need to go the minute the captain turns on the seatbelt sign.

Pack for easy access

From airsickness to hunger to general frustration, in-air meltdowns are easy to come by. To deal with these issues quickly, pack a carry-on bag filled with emergency supplies and keep it under the seat in front of you.

• Extra clothes: Make sure you bring along a change of clothes for Baby in a carry-on in case they needs an in-air change, and at least a spare top for yourself so you both won’t spend the duration of the flight in an outfit soggy from an inflight spill, or worse.
• Diaper kit: Changing an in-air-diaper tests both parental patience and coordination. To make it a bit easier, put everything you need to change Baby’s diaper in one small bag or container and don’t forget to include several zippered plastic bags for soiled diapers. Because it’s tough to find consensus on the best disposal strategy, once the diaper is safely ensconced in plastic, ask the flight attendant what the airline prefers you do with it.
• Snacks: Inopportune flight times or delays can wreak havoc with your toddler’s eating routine – and by extension, their mood. Pack portable, non-messy snacks you know Baby loves in your carry-on bag so you won’t be at the mercy of whatever you can grab between flights.
• Toys: Boredom comes a close second to hunger in the list of toddler in-flight challenges. Always remember to bring along your toddler’s favorite comfort object, as well as their neatest, mos contained go-to activities, like sticker books or stories. Plus, make sure your easy-to-access carry-on bag contains a few surprise toys to pull out if you find yourself reaching the end of your bag of tricks.

Taking the time to prepare before a flight and carefully packing a carry-on bag can mean the difference between a long flight and a very, very long flight.

Sources

• “Travel Safety Tips.” American Academy of Pediatrics. American Academy of Pediatrics. July 14 2015. Retrieved September 5 2017. https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Travel-Safety-Tips.aspx.
• “Family Friendly Flying.” Adapted from Healthy Children Magazine, Winter 2007. HealthyChildren.org. American Academy of Pediatrics. November 21 2015. Retrieved September 5 2017. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Family-Friendly-Flying.aspx.
• Committee on Injury and Poison Prevention. “Restraint Use on Aircraft.” Pediatrics.AAPPublications.org. American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatrics. November 2001 Volume 108/Issue 5. Retrieved September 5 2017. http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/108/5/1218. 

Beach

Hitting the beach is a popular vacation idea for all ages – toddlers included. At this age, Baby will love digging in the sand (and maybe taking a bite, too), as well as splashing in the waves. Granted you may spend less time with your toes in the sand and more time brushing it off everything you brought, but watching Baby play is part of the fun. Beaches make for great day trips or longer getaways. If it’s an option, renting a house near the water is a great alternative to a hotel, since you can save money by preparing meals in your own kitchen, and Baby gets more room to run around.

Cruise

Cruises are a big hit with parents because of the number of events and activities to be found in just one location. Most cruise lines offer child-friendly activities like shows and movies, and ships that are geared specifically toward children will also feature familiar characters who are around for meet and greets. Since cruises offer what is essentially constant entertainment during all waking hours, it’s unlikely that Baby will end up bored onboard. Another reason parents love cruises is that childcare is often available (for an extra fee). You’re entitled to some adult fun, too!

Theme parks

This one goes without saying, but theme parks are like Las Vegas for kids. If you have older children, this destination is a great choice for the range of ages, as there are rides for all. Baby will enjoy the tastes, sights, and sounds (and may even manage a nap in the stroller). If you do some research before you venture out, you’ll be able to make sure there are rides and activities geared toward younger tikes. Choosing off-peak times to visit, if you can, will help you both spend less time in line and more time having fun.

If you’re a travel lover, there’s no need to check your luggage until Baby gets older. You’ll probably find that you’ve become an overpacker since adding a toddler to your carry-ons, but it’s worth the price to see the smile on their face as they takes in a new experience. Time it right, plan ahead, and you’re all sure to have a blast on your next excursion!

• Pro: Baby will get to spend some time with different scenery and people. Whether you’re traveling from the city to the country, or just spending time with far-away family or friends, Baby will enjoy looking at all the new things around them.
• Con: At this age, and during the time of the trip, Baby may not care about much of what they sees, and may not remember it later.

• Pro: Baby is more portable than a 12-year-old or a teenager.
• Con:  Baby might be lighter, but their stroller and highchair sure aren’t.

• Pro: Baby is fairly easy to please and doesn’t need as much entertainment – the whole world entertains them!
• Con:  They will still monopolize a lot of your attention on the trip, since they can’t do much on their own.

• Pro: You’ll get to see some new scenery without having to find a babysitter for Baby first.
• Con: We’ve all been on a flight with a crying toddler. It’s even harder being the parent of a cranky traveler, so prepare to be at the end of quite a few travel tantrums.

• Pro: You’ll do a lot of bonding.
• Con: You’ll also do a lot of planning and work!

At the end of the day, the choice that is right for you really depends on what you want out of the experience. If you’re invested in bringing Baby on a trip and you suspect that you’re up to the task, then it’s totally worth it to start planning one. But if you don’t like the idea of going on a vacation where you’ll end up focusing your attention on Baby more often than you focus your camera, you might want to wait a little bit longer to introduce them to the vacation experience. 

Even if Baby does enjoy a trip,  they probably won’t retain much of what’s going on. So if you are set on traveling somewhere with  them, make sure you consider your own feelings as well. There’s plenty of time for Disney World in the years to come, so if it’s not exactly the destination of your dreams, don’t force it.  Baby will probably have just as much fun on a brewery tour or at a musuem.

First off, many parents feel that if they can avoid airplanes to get to a vacation, it’s probably worth it. There are definitely times when flying is the only way to get where you need to go, but for shorter trips, it might be time to get a little creative, since creative travel methods can help your little one avoid takeoff, landing, and the altitude in-between until they is a little bit better prepared to handle it. If there’s no way of cutting the plane out of your trip, though, there’s a lot you can do to survive an airplane with your infant, which you can read more about here.

If you do manage to put off Baby‘s first plane-ride, that means road or train trips. If you can get a private car, traveling by train can be a fun way to trek across the country. Consider exploring the areas just out of reach of where you live. Pull out a map – what’s 4 hours in each direction from you?

Visit the grandparents

For many people, spending a lot of time with the parents or in-laws might not be a set-up that screams vacation. Maybe a holiday, but certainly not time meant to be dedicated to relaxing.

But you’ve got a baby now, and grandparents have special relationships with their grandchildren. Any opportunity to see their new grandchild will bring them a lot of joy. In fact, they’ll be so happy you came to visit that they might just make meals for you, keep an eye on Baby while you sleep, and generally go to great lengths to make sure you’re comfortable.

Visit a beach destination

Enjoying some sun and saltwater is a great way to rejuvenate. Absorbing vitamin D from the sun is good for your baby-weary body, and walking along the beach or swimming in saltwater actually have beneficial health effects. And, unless you live on beachfront property, there’s a good chance that this will be Baby‘s first ever experience of the ocean, in case they hasn’t been getting enough firsts lately.

Cleanup at the beach is a breeze. Sure, you’ll need your diaper bag, but if Baby spits up or lets loose a little tinkle, the water is right there. If you can find a somewhat private area, you can let Baby squirm, scream, and cry all they wants and not worry about disturbing anyone. It’s liberating to be outdoors and not have to worry that Baby is disturbing anyone or making a mess.

Plus, if you think Baby likes to pee in their diaper, wait until you see the relief on their face when they pees in the ocean!

All-inclusive resorts

If you are taking a vacation on a certain type of budget, you might want to consider visiting a resort with all-inclusive pricing. They provide rooms, activities, and meals all for one daily price. This lets you budget your vacation well in advance and not have to worry about any surprise expenses.

You can also more easily plan out your days at a resort. If you’re taking a vacation to get up and out of the house, then give yourself an itinerary. If you make plans in advance, they’ll be harder to break. Your first temptation when you get to the resort will likely be to just sleep as much as possible. That’s fine, but maybe not the reason you’re on this particular vacation!

Think about choosing a resort with fun activities available – you can help to make your vacation memorable by really committing to exploring them. You’ll thank yourself, and Baby will be glad you’re out of the house.

Bed and breakfast

Comfy plush beds, few other guests, a staff that’s on hand 24 hours a day to make sure you’re comfortable and have everything you need. Sometimes a trip to a B&B is just what the doctor ordered.

If you live in a city or suburb, you might enjoy trying to find a place a little off the beaten path to get some fresh air away from the sounds and distractions of the city. It’s definitely a good idea to check that having an infant with you isn’t against the B&B’s policies, as you wouldn’t want to disturb the other guests if they’re expecting total peace and quiet. The nice thing about smaller B&Bs is that the owners will know the full guest list well in advance. You’re sure to be scheduled at a time when Baby will be a welcome addition.

Maybe do Disney

Depending on where you live, this might be one of those “we’ve just gotta get on a plane” kind of trips. You know what? It’ll probably be worth it.

Disney parks are iconic destinations for first trips. Besides the rides and attractions, you’ll find that these parks have another great thing going for them – they’re designed with families in mind. You’ll find lots of changing space and a staff ready to help you meet Baby’s needs. It’s always great to find a destination where children aren’t only welcome, but expected. Make sure to take pictures to show Baby how much fun the vacation was in a few years.

1. Safety firstThis one is actually three points – free points for you!
   • When you book your flight, make sure you don’t sit in an emergency exit row. There’s usually a little more room, but it’s generally looked down upon by flight staff, and in case of an emergency, Baby probably isn’t quite ready to help anyone exit the plane. Try to sit as far forward on the plane as possible, since there is less noise on the front side of the wings.
   • Bring a car seat that Baby fits snugly in. Depending on what kind of airplane you board, the seat might face forward, or backward. On most commercial airliners, Baby should be facing the back of the chair. Don’t feel strange about asking a flight attendant if you’ve got any questions. Airlines don’t always require that children under the age of 2 have their own seats, but car seats provide better protection in case of turbulence than holding a baby in your arms, and depending on the length of the flight, having your own seat can be more comfortable, too.
   • Some airlines offer parents the option to board first, to give them the chance to settle in before the flight gets crowded, but some parents actually find it easier to board later in the process, to limit their babies’ time aboard the plane. During boarding, there are lots of swinging bags and the possibility of falling luggage, all of which could accidentally injure Baby. If you aren’t traveling alone, consider sending someone first to set up the chair and get bags in place, then you can bring Baby on board and be comfortable quickly.
2. Poppin’ ears
   Babies can become uncomfortable when their ears don’t adjust to changes in pressure. This is worst during takeoff and landing. Be ready to offer a bottle or a pacifier during takeoff and landing to help with the change in pressure, and possibly breastfeeding to soothe during the flight. This can help with creating a more peaceful ride.
3. Try to schedule for sleep
   If you can book your flight to take off around the time of Baby’s usual nap, you might just find that they sleeps through the whole flight. The hum and vibration of the plane can often lull a baby to sleep. You might want to consider trying to keep Baby awake before getting on the plane so they will be tired and ready to sleep during the ride.
4. Bring entertainment:
   Toys, blankets, and books, especially, small, light, and easy-to-carry items can be lifesavers if Baby decides they won’t be napping on this flight, and is in need of entertainment.
5. Take a walk
   Exploring the plane with Baby will make them more comfortable in the new space. Other passengers may be friendlier once they’ve had an opportunity to meet Baby, too, and a walk will also help you stretch a bit and relax.
6. Try to relax
   Traveling can be stressful even without Baby, but if you can, do what you can to keep your stress under control during the trip. If you’re calm, affectionate, and comfortable, you can help Baby feel that way too. If you’re stressed, Baby could pick up on your negative vibes and get anxious.
7. Bring a change of clothes
   We mean an extra set for both you and Baby, along with some plastic bags to store dirty clothes in. If there’s an accident during changing, or a full-on spit up, you’ll want to be prepared. Other passengers will appreciate you and Baby smelling fresh and clean.
8. Bring earplugs
   If you can pick up some earplugs in bulk, think about bringing a bunch for your fellow travelers. Sometimes there’s nothing that can be done about a crying baby, and the other people on board the plane will appreciate you putting some effort into their comfort. At the very least, you can drown out the sounds of the plane and maybe catch some sleep alongside Baby.
9. Pack light
   Baby may not weigh more than a heavy suitcase, but they’s a lot harder to keep track of. Packing light can take a lot of stress off your mind.

Know your Baby

Trips on public transportation with Baby, like most outings they is involved with, have a much better chance of going well if they is in a good mood. Unless you know Baby is going to be able to nap in the carrier or stroller you’re bringing with you, naptime might not be the best travel time. If Baby tends to get fussy if they can’t snack, try feeding them before you head out, or packing a bottle or other snack-source. If Baby can’t stand to be worn in a carrier, ignore all of the advice about how it’s the best way to go – it’s only an easy way to carry Baby around if they doesn’t protest it every time you try using it, after all. Unless you know Baby is great with crowds, it can be a good idea to try to time these early voyages so they don’t coincide with the commuter rush, too.

Know your game plan

One thing about public transportation that makes a lot of new parents nervous is the lack of a car seat, or any kind of seat belt. While buses and trains are statistically much safer than cars, seat belt or not, it can be hard to relax and have a smooth ride if you spend the whole time worrying for Baby’s safety. Some parents feel more secure knowing their babies are at least somewhat enclosed, and feel safest traveling with their babies in strollers. Collapsible strollers, where the wheels fold down and a car seat-like structure is left, are good for this if you have one, but a regular stroller with parking brakes on can be good for this sense of security too, as long as the bus system in your area doesn’t require that strollers on the bus be folded up and stowed, as some do.

On the other hand, though, strollers can be bulky, hard to maneuver, hard to get up the steps and onto a bus, and hard to fit comfortably around the other passengers. If you’re not walking far before, after or between bus trips, it may be easiest to skip the stroller in favor of a sling or other baby-wearing device, which will be easier to carry onto the bus, or to get through turnstiles onto the train. If you are taking a train, knowing whether there’s elevator access or just stairs or escalators down to the platform may play into this decision.

Timing is another factor that can help make or break your trip. Baby is more likely to stay happy if you can minimize the number of long waits breaking up your trip, and a little googling to find out the basic timelines of the routes you’re taking, and to see if your city has a good tracking app if you haven’t got one already, can go a long way.

Be prepared

Having a baby can get you to a level of ready-for-anything you might not have had before, but part of being prepared to bring Baby on public transit hinges on knowing how much not to bring, too. Having to wrangle an overload of stuff along with Baby on a crowded bus or train is no fun for anybody, so while it’s a good idea to have a snack with you, and maybe a jacket or blanket if it looks like Baby might get chilly, traveling light is probably a better bet than preparing for any eventuality.

Have fun!

Sound unlikely? Depending on Baby’s personality, it can be, but with a little luck, the bus trip could also become one of their favorite things. After all, city buses have some of Baby’s most long-standing interests – a constant rocking motion, new sights, and new sounds. And a whole bunch of gum under the seats.