Top 5 Things Moms Should Keep in the Family Minivan
Posted by Neena on 05/8/07 in Children of All Ages, Just for Moms, Parenting Tips, Travel, Working From Home
Now that spring sports have started, my kids and I spend a lot of time in our family minivan traveling from one activity to another.
My minivan has become a home away from home of sorts. I have learned that I must keep it well stocked so that everyone will remain happy.
The Top 5 things I must have in my Minivan are:
- Food
Snacks, snacks, and more snacks
Because - full kids are happy kids. (One good choice is Cheerios Snack Mix - a healthier alternative than some of the other grab and go snacks) - Drinks
Water, juice, and Gatorade
Because - hydrated kids are healthy kids. - Clean Up Stuff
Wet wipes, paper towels, anti-bacterial hand cleaner, and several empty plastic grocery bags for garbage
Because - clean kids and cars make for happy mommies. - Sweatshirts and extra t-shirts
Because - warm and dry kids tend not to complain as much. - Stroller
Because - preschoolers don’t always want to walk or stay put.
This Top 5 post has been submitted to the Top 5 - Group Writing Project at Problogger.net.
Thank you, Darren, for running the project - what a wonderful opportunity to network with other bloggers!
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Ginene | May 8, 2007 | Reply
I saw from your profile. We are both a mom of 4. I agree with the things you should keep in the minivan. I also keep a blanket in the winter time just in case the car breaks down.
Neena | May 8, 2007 | Reply
Good idea. I should do that, too. I can’t tell you how many times we have been at some sporting event with no place to sit. A blanket would solve that problem.
Kate | May 9, 2007 | Reply
I only have two kids, so we can still make do with a car, but space is limited. Thanks for keeping your list down to the essentials that I can manage and still make life easier.
Neena | May 9, 2007 | Reply
Kate,
You are welcome. I get frustrated if I am out on the road, the kids need something, - and it’s just not there. (Like when we are in my husband’s car!) I thought the list would be helpful.
James | May 9, 2007 | Reply
Funny, we have no kids and my wife seems to bring most of that stuff whenever she goes anywhere with me. At least she does not think I need a stroller.
Neena | May 9, 2007 | Reply
Your wife is a smart lady - and I am glad you don’t need a stroller.
TheOzz | May 9, 2007 | Reply
This is so true. I do my far share of minivan driving with our two kids (both under 5).
I found you via ProBlogger’s Top 5. I will add you to my Top[?] picks from Darren’s Top 5 list after I get done sifting through all of them.
Your title is what caught my eye. I do not have time to review all the Top 5’s of the day, but instead I am only reviewing the ones whose titles catch my attention.
Neena | May 9, 2007 | Reply
Thanks for your feedback, it is helpful to know what it was about my post that caught your eye. I appreciate it.
Mirko | May 9, 2007 | Reply
Full kids are happy kids and… happy kids are fat kids…
Neena | May 9, 2007 | Reply
That, Mirko, would depend on what you feed them.
Kathy | May 10, 2007 | Reply
One small thing I always keep in the back of my car is a small tool kit…because it never fails, I’m broken down on the side of the road, someone wants to help, and the first thing they ask is “Do you have a screwdriver?” (Or jumper cables. Jumper cables are good.)
Neena | May 10, 2007 | Reply
Kathy,
Very practical advice. Thanks.
Susan Denham | May 10, 2007 | Reply
The wipes come in handy lots of times. Since I have 2 still hooked on Pacifiers, I try to have one or two extra in the car, in case one gets thrown out a window or left somewhere. This is a good list. I found you via the top 5 as well.
Neena | May 10, 2007 | Reply
Oh yes, I remember the days of pacifiers - don’t leave home without it!
Kristen (Quirky) | May 10, 2007 | Reply
well I’m only a mommy of 1 and no mini van but the car has all that! :):) And more normally! Maybe I need to upgrade to the minivan so I still fit!
Great post!
Neena | May 10, 2007 | Reply
Thanks, Kristen - but you might want to stick with the car, in my experience - the more space I have, the more space I need!
Karen | May 11, 2007 | Reply
What a great list! And so true- all of those are definately necessities.
Neena | May 11, 2007 | Reply
Thanks, Karen.
Sherri Caldwell - The Rebel Housewife | May 16, 2007 | Reply
Neena, I love your Top 5 List! I’m Mom to 3 kids and 1 dog, all a little older, so no stroller required anymore (thank goodness!). Now I keep a well-stocked first aid kit in the SUV, and for summer: sunscreen and the swim bag with swimsuits/towels. I will try to keep in touch, fellow Mom Blogger!