How To Survive Riding In A Car?

[JEKBreatheandBelieve]

@Hope4Now- I like the little presents idea. I remember that the person we're going to visit said she used to do that with her kids. I definitely couldn't handle being in the backseat. I've tried it once not being crammed between seats and my anxiety gets worse.

We tried the DVD player today on a 45 minute trip and it worked like a charm. That won't work for the whole trip, but it's a start. Thanks everyone for your suggestions- lots of great ideas.

 

[littlelostchild]

When you get to take a break, blowing bubbles is great for stress relieving breathing - you have to blow calmly to create bubbles, and the kids should enjoy them ;)

I used to take a car pack for each of my kids with various activities that could be brought out. We had some favourites and some new items.

It sounds like the DVD player will be great!

Best of luck.

 

[Deleted member 12723]

I really feel for you and for your family. I used to love long car rides but not anymore even when I am the one doing the driving. I cannot drive at night because I cannot see.

There were so many suggestions that were so useful. I am sure you will have a good trip.

Mabe bring an I POD for yourself and bring lots of snacks and drinks. Car games are also fun too. I wish you the very best and come back and let us know how it went.

 

[JEKBreatheandBelieve]

@littlelostchild - Bubbles are a great idea, my kids love them and my therapist recommended them in the past for calming. I had forgotten about bubbles.

@gizmo - Thank you for your thoughts. I am definitely going to pack snacks and drinks. I am bringing my computer with me so that I can have calming time while we are at the relatives' house so I will be in touch as this forum helps me feel less alone.

 

[JEKBreatheandBelieve]

We're leaving tomorrow. Tonight I made a list of all that has to be done before we leave. Then, I realized there's so much to do! I hate the feeling of being rushed. My husband helped me remember that we're not on a set schedule so it's okay if we leave after our stated goal. I don't have to be worried. No one will be mad if we don't leave "on time".

As I was writing the list there was distant thunder. That prompted me to check the weather. It is calling for thunderstorms and rain all along the travel route. I hate thunder and I am very scared that I will freak out in the car. It is a major trigger that I have yet to figure out how to control. I have so far managed to keep my terror from my 5 year old who is a little scared of thunder. I can't do that if we're in a car. And being in a car during a thunderstorm is worse than being in a building and I have literally screamed out loud while in the car.

Breathe and believe. I can't let my anxiety win right now.

On a positive note, we have DVD players for the boys and we tested them out. The boys were completely silent while watching so that gives me hope. A little napping, a little watching, a little eating, a little playing and maybe we'll make it.

 

[littlelostchild]

You will do awesome!

 

[JEKBreatheandBelieve]

We made it here. The first day of travel as alright. Yesterday was horrible. I wanted out of the car so badly. It took almost 7 hours! My boys were tired and cranky towards the end, but I blasted music through my headphones and drowned them out so that I would stay calm. Today I am really tired as my body is finally not on super, extra-high alert. Trying to enjoy the chaos of family.