“Are we there yet?” This may be the mantra of young children traveling in the car. However, your next car trip can be a pleasant one if you have ways to occupy your children. Set aside a play kit for your child to be used only for car travel. Avoid small pieces that can be lost or become projectiles in an accident.

On the Road

Here is a fun way to prevent loose parts from flying all over your car. When your child tires of roadway play, he can also use the tray with magnetized letters and toys.

• Attach the magnets to the bottom of the toy cars.

• Let your child drive the magnetized cars all around the tray.

• If desired, help your child use masking tape to outline roadways on the tray.

Animal Sounds

This is a lively game to play the next time your family takes a drive through the countryside.

• Players look out for animals along the road.

• When someone spots an animal, she identifies it by the sound it makes. For example, “I see a moooooooo!”