Travelling with toddlers

Holidays are meant to be relaxing but the disruption to your child's routine and a change in environment can lead to arguments and frayed tempers.

Here are some top holiday tips to help parents keep cool.

Listen carefully

A tired child can really choose their moments to express how grumpy the travelling has made, them but try not to lose control at passport control. Listen carefully to toddlers when they are trying to tell you things - get down to their level, make eye contact.

Don't shout

Describe exactly what you want your child to do. Give reasons and listen to their side of the story. Speak calmly but firmly and don't shout or they will concentrate on your anger rather than what you are trying to say.

Let them voice a choice

Try and give children some control over the holiday by allowing choice when you can. For example, give them an occasional option over what to eat, especially if they are not used to the food on the menu. This will ensure they don't feel completely controlled and offer them the opportunity to experiment.

Try and keep your child occupied

We all find long journeys on trains and planes frustrating.  Toddlers often express their frustrationw tih crying, aggression or possibly a full blown tantrum.

Be aware of the early signs and use distraction techniques for as long as they work:

• "Look we are flying over the sea"
• "Shh, I thought I heard a bee buzzing".
• Burst into a song, like "The wheels on the bus" unexpectedly.
• On long journey,s bring games and some snacks.

Surprises and distractions grab your toddler's attendiong and make her forget she was about to start a battle.  They key is to break up the journey as much as possible

Routines rule

Remember, a tired or hungry toddler will usually be more negative, so wherever possible try to have regular mealtimes and enough sleep. This can really make a difference.

Get active!

Holidays are great opportunities for physical exercise. Make sure your child has the chance, every day if possible, to run around and do other energetic things, such as playing with a ball, cycling, skipping. This is particularly useful for the child who seems to have too much energy.

Say yes

Try to cut down the number of times you say no. Make positive requests "Close the door gently" not "Don't slam the door". Soften your refusals "We can play the game when the journey has started", not "We don't have time now, we must catch the train."

Be smart

Where possible, turn boring tasks into a simple game. For example, counting all the red cars on the road for a long car journey or try saying something like, "I bet I can make it back to the tent before you".

Give praise

Lavish praise on positive behaviour that you want to encourage: "good girl, you tried lots of different food today" or "what a clever boy, getting into the car seat when I asked". This makes your toddler want to repeat the behaviour that pleases you.

Further help and information

Parentline Plus
Help and support for anyone caring for children

Website: www.parentlineplus.org.uk