The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

Posted by pecuellar on 05/12/08 - 07:02 AM

Summer is just around the corner and for many that means family vacations or visits to far away relatives. This can be an almost daunting task for new parents. There are a few things you can do to help make the family road trip a little easier on everyone.

Traveling with and infant can, in some ways be easier than traveling with older children, so don’t cancel your trips because you now have a baby on board. A little planning can go along way. For instance, if your trip will be only and hour or two drive try to schedule departure right before baby’s regular nap time. Feed your baby, check their diaper then snuggle them into their car seat. Give them a familiar blanket or toy and chance are they will sleep the entire trip.

You may also want to invest in a baby shade for your car. This is an inexpensive item that will help to block the sun from hitting your baby directly. If baby gets a little fussy along the way or if it is a longer road trip, leave time in your schedule to make a couple of stops along the way. Get your baby out and walk around with them, feed and change them and snuggle them back in. Just keep in mind that your pit stops will take a little longer then they used to. Leaving adequate time for them will take the edge off of everyone. You are sure to make it to Grandma’s house or wherever happy and safe.