SCH 055 How to Avoid Toddler Meltdowns While Traveling

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Does the thought of traveling with a toddler bring on visions of meltdowns and hysteria? These self-care hacks will help your toddler travel better and help you avoid a meltdown (your child’s or your own).

Traveling With Littles

I can remember traveling with our girls when they were toddlers as if it were yesterday. Most of the time, things worked out well. But sometimes, we didn’t plan ahead. When we had long car trips scheduled, I took a page from my mom’s book of parenting skills and prepared travel bags or boxes for the girls. They loved the coloring books and stickers, and I loved the their contented chatter.

Don’t get me wrong, we did have a meltdown or two every trip. Usually at some relative’s house, when our daughters’ routines had been out of whack for days on end. Meltdowns are inevitable. But with a little preparation and anticipation of what might go wrong, you can make the transitions easier for your little ones.

When a toddler has a meltdown, remember it’s not because they are bad or trying to ruin your vacation. They don’t have the communication skills to express their feelings nor do they understand how to regulate their emotions. In the face of a meltdown, remain calm and compassionate. Take a deep breath and remember how you feel when things are out of your control. Check out this blog post for ideas on how to help little ones process their emotions.