Traffic Jam Pack

A little planning ahead will save the day when you're in a jam

ADDED May 28, 2008

entertain-the-kids-in-the-car-fun-activities-for-the-car At some point, you're going to be stuck in the car with the kids, and you're all going to have to do some waiting. It's inevitable.

So why not plan a head with a 'traffic jam pack?' Maybe this idea isn't rocket science, and maybe it's something that has occurred to you before. But have you actually taken fifteen minutes and put it together? Do it today, and you'll be glad when you need it.

Get (1) a sizable bag and put some of the following stuff in it:

(2) A couple of picture books
(3) Some new, small, and interesting toys
(4) A CD of music that the kids haven't heard yet
(5) An easy snack, such as granola bars or a box of raisins
(6) An index card or two to help you remember some good-for-the-car Today Is Fun ideas (such as "Great Gadzooks" and "Bigger or Smaller.")

The trick here is novelty. The more new stuff that the kids haven't seen before, the better.

And maybe you and the kids won't just wait it out. Maybe you'll manage to have some fun.