Appropriate age group:
Infants
Toddlers

Description of tip or technique:
Though driving is slower and more confining than other modes of transportation, it does give you the luxury of traveling at your own pace. Many infants are lulled to sleep by the motion of the car and will stay asleep for hours if you?e lucky. If this is the case, be sure to pay attention to your baby? eating schedule. If your infant normally eats every 3-4 hours and is deep asleep, but is approaching the five hour mark since he or she has last eaten, it may make sense for you to stop before your baby wakes screaming for food. Otherwise, you may find yourself forced to stop in an area that is unsafe. Or worse, you may be unable to stop because you are on the highway or stuck in traffic with a screaming baby. Taking control of the situation can help you avoid a stressful situation for all involved. When traveling with older children, you?l need to take frequent breaks since older children can become restless when sitting for long stretches.

Other comments or suggestions:
Safety should always be taken into consideration when traveling. An infant or baby should never be taken out of his or her car seat while the vehicle is moving. Older children (and adults) should wear seatbelts at all times when the car is in motion. Be sure to have your car serviced before driving long distances. It? always a good idea to have a cell phone handy when traveling with children.