Traveling With Children Doesn't Have To Be Murder

School is out, or about to be. As a public service, I'm going to share with you five steps that I worked out over many years, to make traveling with children enjoyable. 1. MAKE IT A SURPRISE. Never announce your destination ahead of time. My husband and I were continually amazed at how predicable our daughters' reactions were. One said "Great!" The next, "Will I like it?" And finally, our personal favorite, "That's boring," even though she knew nothing about the attraction in question. What fascinated us most was that we never knew which line would come from which child. Keeping the destination a surprise won't change their reactions, it just shortens the length of time you have to listen to them. 2. BRING FOOD. We learned the hard way, which is pretty much how we learned everything, that there's rarely a reasonably priced, child-friendly place to eat when you are ready for a break. Along with the nutritious items you need to keep going, include cookies, brownies, candy--anything that makes their little eyes shine and their mouths too full to talk. 3. QUIT EARLY. The worst mistake is going too long, trying to see one more building or one more exhibit, pushing everyone past their limits. It's never necessary to see and do every single thing possible (amusement parks excepted), and better for everyone's mental health if you don't try. 4. STAY FOCUSED. Show, explain, listen, laugh and overlook all but the worst behavioral issues. This may be your only chance to see The Grand Canyon or The Birthplace of the Ball Point Pen. The behavior will be available for correction indefinitely. 5. HAVE FUN. Most importantly, when they are all busy enjoying themselves, take time to enjoy it with them. That is, after all, why you came.