How To Travel With No TV

I grew up with very limited TV.  We didn't have a TV until I was six.  Then we could only watch 1 hour a day.  I didn't want to be this strict with Arabella because I believe the more you restrict, the more they want it.  I am a perfect example because when I went to friends houses, I only wanted to watch TV. 

I do think my limited TV at home helped me be very creative.  SO (oh, being a parent and finding a balance is SO hard!) I try not to make a big deal about the TV but I try to limit it in a very discrete way.  I also try to watch more educational shows.  Arabella can speak some Spanish now because of Dora and another Spanish DVD.

All of that being said, I don't want Arabella to miss out on experiences because she is watching TV.  When we are traveling on short trips (2-3 hours), I point out fun things along the way to show her what is going on outside the car.  We look for cows or horses.  Or if there isn't a lot to look at, I bring books.  I also bring a bag full of toys and bring a new one out about every 20 minutes to keep her entertained.

All of these pics are from Arabella's train ride to Savannah.  It is about a 5 hour car ride from my house and I knew that would be rough.  I checked into the train and it is very affordable (in some cases cheaper than gas).  There isn't a station in my hometown so we had to drive to Jacksonville.  This was perfect.  Two hour car ride and then get on a train.  Arabella was SOOOO excited.  It turned out to be a GREAT way to travel with a child.  It is very easy to get on and off.  The conductors are very helpful.  The seats are very roomy.  And you can go to the dinning car for a change.  The sound and movement is very soothing for them also.  She had a blast!

We also NEVER allow a TV or electronic device if we go to dinner.  I think this is very important.  Psychologist are very concerned that children now a days aren't developing social skills the way they should with all of the electronic device distractions.  What a better way to socialize then over dinner.  If you try to suffice them by putting a ipad in their hands- yes they are quiet but they aren't socializing.

We also try to keep the snacks mostly protein so she has a nice and steady mood.  Nothing is worse then a child in a car on a sugar rush. 

Hope this helps. : )

Tara