The half-term holidays are upon us, and there’s no better activity than escaping your home town for a while and going on an adventure – something that kids are sure to love.
However, in order to do this, it’s likely that you’ll have to spend a while in the car. And if you’re a parent, you’ll know the chaos that can ensue during these long journeys.
It’s enough to make you avoid those trips altogether, but if you’re keen to get away during this half-term then don’t worry – one psychologist has unveiled the secret to keeping your little ones happy and comfortable in the car.
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To help worried parents keep their journeys calm and fallout-free, JoJo Maman Bébé has partnered with registered therapist Danny Zane from North London Therapy to share tips on preventing arguments and how to tackle them if they do arise.
He said: “Long car journeys can cause family fallouts because everyone is in close proximity to each other, facing prolonged interaction. Stress factors such as boredom, fatigue, and cramped spaces can heighten tensions.
“Differences in preferences can contribute to clashes, such as music choices or pit stop timings, while the lack of personal space can magnify minor irritations, creating a challenging environment.
“Siblings arguing in the car can indicate underlying tensions or unresolved issues. It may also reflect differences in personalities, stress from the journey, or the need for attention.”
One key factor in keeping everybody calm in the car is comfort. So, it’s crucial to put your children in the right clothes and make sure you have some spares packed for those long journeys.
According to the experts, here are the top five items of clothing that can help to prevent tantrums during long car journeys.
Zip-up hoodies or cardigans -Fluctuations in temperature mean it’s essential children can remove and add layers of clothing themselves—or for a parent to help with when making a stop at the services. Opt for clothing that can be unfastened easily, like cardigans and zip-up hoodies.
Slip-off shoes – Wearing shoes can be uncomfortable and lead to frustration, choose a style that can be easily slipped off without requiring laces to be untied, or make sure they’re undone before the journey begins.
Soft fabrics – Avoid itchy or rough fabrics to prevent any upset or tantrums from starting.
Stretchy waistband bottoms – To keep everyone happy during long journeys, clothing should be super flexible and adaptive. Opt for loose-fitting tops and stretchy waistbands to avoid any discomfort or pressure points.
Bibs or snack-proof clothing – Make sure you pack bibs or a spare change of clothing in case snacks turn into spillages and accidents.
Danny added: “If an argument has taken place, parents can calmly intervene by acknowledging the feelings of both children without taking sides, encouraging siblings to express their viewpoints helps to validate their emotions. Suggest a brief pause for everyone to cool down, followed by a conversation to resolve the issue.”