Taxi-ing Kiddos: Car Mate Essentials {Tip 22 of 31}

But, by spending so much time in the car, I’ve found the following items make our list every year as are car mate essentials.

Napkins: keep a stack loaded in the glove compartment for all the times they come in handy; for blowing noses, wiping up messes and sticky fingers.

Hand Sanitizer: place the pump right in the side door panel, never be without it. Kids can use prior to eating a snack or after a sneeze.

Emergency First Aid Kit: because you never know when you’re going to needa Band-Aid.

Healthy Snacks: like Annie’s Organic Snack Mix Bunnies or a healthy energy nut & seed blend. It has just enough dried cranberries to keep me from reaching for candy. Making your own trail mix is a great option as well; just remember no chocolate or anything that melts. **Be careful of choking hazards for younger kids.**

Finger Nail File: this is good for fixing the occasional broken fingernail or for times that you have a few minutes to just do your nails.

Stress Ball or Fidget Toy: for you or your child, manipulating helps with self- regulation, relieves nervous energy and has a calming effect.

Other great items: a change of clothes for all kids (regardless of age), paper towels, towel or blanket, plastic garbage bag, a notepad (and pencil/pen), reading material.

Enjoy it “Taxi Moms”

Happy & Safe Driving!