TripLearning

We love books, so listening to books and stories has been a great pastime at home and on trips.  Before our firstborn was old enough to read, he would listen to audiobooks during his daily quiet time.  Here are some great resources for listening to stories that will entertain and stimulate the imagination.      Libraries - Most libraries have online access to Overdrive where you can check out audiobooks, ebooks and even stream movies.   Storynory   - This is a site full of stories you can listen to online or easily download to a mp3 player, tablet or smartphone. Audible.com - This is a huge resource for audiobooks.  You can try it for free before subscribing. Adventures in Odyssey - Focus on the Family has been recording these stories for years and continue to make new CDs. The Pond - These are stories for children that my husband even enjoys because of the humor. Amazon - You can buy CDs, mp3s and download ...

Playing games is a great way to pass the time on a long trip.  Here are some ideas for fun, easy games to play that don't require the use of any electronic devices. 1.  Alphabet Naming Game   This is an easy activity that my kids often do on their own and I have tried it out on other kids and adults as well with good responses.  It's really simple and requires NO supplies.  First, pick a category.  A few examples:  animals, super heroes, movies, TV shows, fictional characters, song titles and books.  Second, beginning with letter A everyone tries to think of something or someone in the category that starts with the letter A.  The goal is for everyone in the vehicle to come up with a name before we move on to the next letter.  We will help each other, especially the little ones who don't always pick for the right letter.  Third, after each person names something for the letter, we move on to the next letter and work through the ent...

2011 With four children ages 5 to 13, we have traveled thousands of miles over the last 13 years with children in tow.  All of our children have traveled since they were babies and have learned to enjoy the journey, for the most part.  As summer begins and families make plans to go on trips, here are some tips and tricks that have worked for our family.  Feel free to share additional tips in the comment section too! 1.  Pack plenty of snacks and drinks.   Offer small snacks frequently to keep kids from getting grumpy from hunger.  We usually mix in special treats along with healthy fruits and veggies.  We only offer water to drink.  Caffeinated beverages for children or adults can lead to more frequent bathroom breaks. 2.  Plan and bring a variety of activity choices.   As our children get older they are able to help plan and bring items that will keep them occupied.  If your children can read and don't get carsick doing th...

Here are some photos from a recent visit to Sheldon Lake State Park .  It is a former fish hatchery.  There are some short trails, an 82-foot observation tower with an elevator, and ponds for family fishing.  It is also FREE admission for all ages!  It's on the East side of Houston off Beltway 8.  It's a small state park that gives you a nice break from the hustle and bustle of city living.  Take a picnic lunch and go exploring. Two of the former fish hatchery ponds. A 1/2 mile trail goes past the ponds. They have restrooms and some educational areas. There's a small botanical garden. Various bones and shells were set out for the kids to inspect. Found some large leg bones! For Directions: Sheldon Lake State Park 15315 Beaumont Hwy, Houston, TX ‎ 

Miller Outdoor Theatre   Since moving to Houston three years ago, this is one of my favorite places to go in Houston.  They offer children's performances at 11 AM throughout the summer and early fall.  Evening performances for families and adults are also offered and you can get tickets for the seats or bring a blanket and sit on the lawn.  The Shakespeare Festival in August is one of my favorites and it's been a great way to introduce my older children to live performances of the Bard's plays. Harris County Public Library Their summer reading program is coming soon!  Summer reading programs are always a great way to encourage your kids to read during the summer months.  Plus, the library offers special programs during the week in their air conditioned locations.   Houston Public Library This was the first library system we joined when we moved to Houston and their summer reading program is our favorite.  You can e...

Summer Movies If your kids are like mine, they have probably seen most of the movies being offered for cheap or free at theaters across the country this summer.  However, if you want a cool break and a chance to enjoy movies your kids love on the big screen again, it's a great opportunity.  But, don't just look up theaters where you live.  If you are traveling anywhere this summer you might want to see if there will be any participating theaters near your vacation destination.  It would be a cheap outing and a chance to hang out with the locals. Regal Cinemas is continuing their $1 summer movies.  They are offering them for 9 weeks at 10 AM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.  Click on the picture to find a theater in your area and check the start date.  Insider Tip:  If you have a Regal Crown Club card, show it when you purchase tickets and on TUESDAYS you will receive a coupon for a $2 small popcorn which you can upgrade to a large for $2 more...