So, you’ve got a three hour road trip staring you in the face. You’ve got snacks, books, games and toys all packed for your toddler to play with. You and your spouse are up front, and your toddler is in the back seat with a mound of toys

This is going to be fun, right?

Five minutes in, the toys are on the floor, cheerios are everywhere and your toddler is screaming his head off.

What can you do?

Try stopping the car and moving into the back seat with him. At this young age, the amount of time they can spend solo-playing is limited (but important). More likely, they’ll want you to read to them, help them eat if it’s snack time or just be near them on a long car ride where they’re essentially immobilized for hours at a time.

Here are some other road trip tips that’ll help you get over the river and through the woods.

• Plan for stops every hour or two. Get out at a rest stop, let your toddler burn off some steam. You’ll also want to get them out of dirty diapers as soon as possible.
• Keep them comfortable. Make sure the sun isn’t shining in their eyes. Keep the temperature comfortable. Make sure a seatbelt isn’t digging into their bare skin.
• Keep them fed. Pack small snacks that are easy to eat and are a minimal choking hazard. Crackers, cut up fruit and cheerios are all good bets.
• Keep them entertained. Bring their favorite toys and books. If you know it’s a crowd pleaser, definitely use it on long trips. You’ll need it.
• Tag team drive. When you stop, switch drivers so mom can play with the little guy too.
• Spot things outside the car. If your toddler can, direct their attention outside the car to other cars, planes, etc. The ever changing landscape will help keep their minds off the fact that they can’t move, and it’ll help them learn to entertain themselves on the open road.