Why are children crabby on the road? It's simple, children like to move. Fidgeting is part of them growing up and exploring their surroundings. That said, there is only so much one can do to keep them entertained in a confined space like the car. Be prepared for tantrums and do keep a tight rein on tempers. Road trips happen few and far between, so it's okay to give in to the child's unreasonable demands just this once a while - particularly when mama is making it all by herself.

Always keep babies strapped in securely - safety is paramount!
Prepare well

The key to managing the children alone is to be prepared. Use the weekend before or take an off from work if need be; travelling without any help means everything has to be thought of beforehand. Get fresh supplies from the market and ensure that the packing is right - make a laundry list of all that will be need to ensure no misses!

  1. Start well-rested: Since mama is going to be behind that wheel all through, ensure enough sleep the night before. Feeling drowsy behind the wheel can be very dangerous, especially without a co-passenger. Travel during the day only - if need be, split the journey over two days and spend the night between at a motel.
  2. A full stomach: A hungry child is a crabby child. Make sure there is plenty of stuff to eat and munch the miles away - at the backseat and within easy reach of hungry fingers. No need to pile on the unhealthy stuff but it's okay to offer a bag of chips if that crunchy apple is resolutely shoved away. If all else fails, try a sweet. A child can definitely be quieted for a while if given a lollipop to suck on. Avoid messy fruits as well as easy-to-spill juices and yogurts; finger foods work best.
  3. Wipe that mess: Keep towels, napkins and tissues within easy reach. Food spillage, sticky hands and mouth, tears and runny noses and perhaps some diaper accidents will need to be addressed immediately. Keeping wipes around the car ensures that a mess can quickly be cleaned up and cleared out. Remember to keep some garbage bags too to throw the soiled stuff into. Do keep a potty handy if a young child needs to go at odd times or map out bathrooms en route and stop when in need.
  4. Keep tot entertained: Children need be attuned to nature, of course. But the view from the car window will wane in a while. Give them books, a doodle pad or perhaps a Game Boy to keep them entertained while mama drives in relative peace. Else turn the road trip into a contest. If your children are older buy them a disposable camera and encourage them to take pictures - there could be a little surprise gift waiting for them at the end of the trip. If they are younger play spotting or counting games. Blast the music and sing along; keep them interested and happy as much as you can.
  5. Use nap time: Sleepy children get cranky so it's best to gently guide them into a nap. If the car movement is irritating them, make a pit stop and help them sleep. The nap may not be long or very comfortable but even an hour of quiet time can make you reach your destination much faster. Secure lolling necks with head cushions but do keep them upright with the seatbelt on - safety is paramount.
  6. Pack well: Keep things you would need frequently within easy reach. Keep a handbag with essentials in the car; diapers, a change of clothes, a jacket or shawl and some favourite toys or books should be easily accessible.
  7. Make pit stops: Children can at best sit in a one place for 2-3 hours before a meltdown begins. Map the stops beforehand - good restaurants with a park or play area where the children can run off pent-up energy are best. Order their favourite food so that mealtime is not a battle and ensure they eat at least a little. Make a bathroom trip mandatory before carrying on.