Every parent knows that traveling with kids can be tedious, especially when the kids are anxiously awaiting their arrival to a Pigeon Forge attraction. To help make your next trip smooth, here are some tips on keeping kids occupied while traveling in the car.
From the moment you begin packing your suitcase, kids are definitely going to be anxious and likely won’t get much rest before you leave for the Smokies! To encourage the kids to sleep for a few peaceful hours, bring along a favorite pillow, stuffed animal or blanket. They’ll likely be hungry when they wake, and snacks that encourage imagination, such as animal crackers or alphabet cereal, will provide some entertainment.
At first, kids may be content to read, look at magazines or toy catalogs. Pack a coloring book and crayons, too! Older kids will enjoy working on word searches and crossword puzzles or listening to audiobooks.
You can also play a few family car games, if the kids get too restless. Family games include puppets, travel board games such as Auto Bingo, Mad Libs for kids, I Spy games, and 20 Questions. A clipboard will prove handy for playing connect the dots, hangman, and tic-tac-toe.
Giving the kids a “mission” will help them feel involved. They may enjoy scavenger hunts, keeping a travel notebook, tracking the route in a kids’ atlas, and counting down the hours by making a paper chain. To add novelty, research interesting places or the Pigeon Forge attractions you plan to visit. Give the children some information about the things you will be doing to let them build their interest.
As the ride wears on, hands-on activities will help keep boredom at bay. Try having the kids make animals and other objects from aluminum foil or pipe cleaners, decorate a pet rock, play with magnets in a metal lunch box, and toys that snap together. Bring along glow sticks for fun in the dark.
New toys usually buy a few hours of fun, so stock up on dollar store goodies beforehand and use them as rewards for good behavior. Special treats such as fruit snacks or favorite cookies will add to the excitement of a long car ride, too. Long travel times can be stressful, but with a little planning and preparation they can become a fun-filled adventure the whole family will remember.
Don’t let the fun and games end when you arrive in Pigeon Forge! Check out the beautiful cabins with arcades games at Timber Tops Luxury Cabin Rentals. After you spend time exploring a Pigeon Forge attraction, you can sit back and take in the scenic mountain views  while the kids enjoy the games available in the cabin! To book your stay at one of our cabins, give us a call at (800) 266-1066. We would be happy to be a part of your vacation in the Smokies!
