How to Stay Sane in a Vehicle with Kids

We've all been there. You are trying to drive. The kids are in the back seat yelling, screaming, crying, and whining. You want nothing more than to pull the car over and start yelling, screaming, crying, or whining yourself. But, you have a place that you need to get to, so you hold on to that bit of sanity you have left, and continue to drive to your destination.

How, you ask, can you make a drive with one or more children less chaotic? Well, I am here to tell you how.

Strategy Number One: Set Ground Rules

Kids need guidelines. Talk with your children about the type of behavior you expect in the vehicle. Set rules for traveling in the vehicle and be consistent in enforcing these rules.

Safety is of the utmost importance; therefore, the first rule should be that everyone in the vehicle is to remain properly restrained for the entire vehicle trip. Do not allow children to wiggle out of car seats or unfasten seat belts. If any child in your vehicle should disobey this rule, immediately pull over. Ensure that the child is properly restrained before pulling back out into traffic. Explain to the children that this type of behavior will not be tolerated. Age-appropriate punishment should enforced when you get home.

The second rule for children riding in your vehicle should be keeping your hands and feet to yourself. This should minimize the amount of arguing between children. If at all possible, separate children so that there is an empty seat between them. If this is not possible, explain to each child what part of the vehicle is "their area." Remind children that their entire body, including all extremities, should remain in their area for the full duration of every ride.

The third rule should be no screaming. If a child is screaming, it is a huge distraction to you as a driver. Remind your children that they should not yell while in the vehicle. If they begin to raise their voice, reprimand them. Age-appropriate punishment may be needed if they do not accept this rule.