Whether you've got a CD or a cassette player, the options are limitless. There are tunes everyone can sing together or likes to hear. Stories and books on tape are great too. For those times when you can't agree, Walkman is there, but try not to let your teens stay plugged in, out of the family conversation. N ever stay in an unpleasant situation you can avoid.
Traffic is a prime example.
If you can't get off the highway completely, pull over and jump rope, throw a ball around, have an impromptu picnic. Nothing is worse than being stuck in a car that's not going anywhere. O rganize your belongings in a manner that works for your family, both inside the car and in the trunk. We like to put the kids' stuff on top, since somehow they always seem to need something. P ack a day bag in the front of the trunk and, depending on the season, include swim suits, towels, rain ponchos, hats, mittens and a change of clothes for everyone.