Newspapers / State Port Pilot (Southport, … / March 25, 1998, edition 2 / Page 9
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Planning helps avoid problems down the road The spring and summer season is traditionally a time for families to hit the road. While traffic can create travel stress, so too can children if their needs are not accommodated. However, with a few minor adjust ments, parents can help ensure drat what's going on inside the car does n't add stress to the situation. "Traveling with children can be an enjoyable and adventurous experi ence," said Dr. Shirley Rouse, a 4-H and youth development specialist in North Carolina A&T State University's Cooperative Extension Program. "However, if informed and wise planning have not taken place prior to starting the trip, traveling with children can be extremely stressful, and could contribute to a ' car accident." According to Rouse, by increasing awareness of and planning for a child's needs, parents can enhance the safety and enjoyment of travel ing with their children. Discipline is mentioned by Rouse to be a priority, especially when traveling with more than one child. "Since disruptive behavior in a car is a common childhood problem, insist upon strict discipline," said Rouse, who added that discipline becomes more important in correla tion with larger numbers of chil dren. "Establish rules and conse quences, and follow them." Rouse suggests that parents address the discipline problem by planning entertainment for their children. "Pack appropriate car games for your children," Rouse stated. "Engage children in activities which will involve the entire family, such as name, number and billboard games, and singing. If a child. prefers to play alone, let them bring toys or a handheld computer game." Though parents are often anxious to get to their destination, and are therefore reluctant to take travel breaks, Rouse suggests that frequent stops can make traveling with chil dren more enjoyable. "Stop often to allow children to release stored energy and to provide an opportunity for bathroom visits," said Rouse. "Before stopping, inform them how long the break will be." Safety is another issue which must be addressed when traveling with children. , Rouse offers these safety-enhanc ing guidelines: • ■ When stopping, insist th&t adults exit the car first, so they can check for oncoming traffic and other hazards. Children tend to run imme diately to release energy. ■ To guard against catching fin gers in doors, insist that doors be closed by adults. ■ Seat belts and child car safety devices should be used, and used appropriately. Check the instruc tions accompanying the device or car for guidelines. According to Rouse, parents should also be aware of and accom modate any special needs their child may have, such as special diets and medication, and susceptibility to motion sickness. "Take just a little time to consider the needs of your children," Rouse. suggests to parents. "A little plan ning before the trip can eliminate big problems down the road." If you love to read or have paperback books you would like to trade in., come see us today. We carry i£3<arge selection of new 81 used paperback M 5904 E. Oak Island Drive Wigk OAK ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB (Established in 1962, this club features a championship golf course located on beautiful Oak Island in full view of the Atlantic Ocean. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC YEAR ROUND Duffers Lounge • Driving Range Golf Packages • Swimming Pool §?: Call for Tee Times 928 Caswell Beach Road., Caswell Beach NC 910-278-5275- 1-800-278-5275 PI lake this the best Spring ever. . Visit us for savings on all your gardening needs as well as house plants, bedding plants or hanging baskets. r Herbs as low as I $2-50 Open 7 Days a Week Stop in and see our new 3,500sq. ft. p* greenhouse. p 8210 River Rd.SE t Southport, 457-4644
State Port Pilot (Southport, N.C.)
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March 25, 1998, edition 2
9
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