Perhaps the thought of being in a small, enclosed space with several of your neighbors' children along with your own doesn't sound easy, but here are a few ideas to help make the ride more enjoyable.

• Make sure that everyone, both parents and children, know the "Carpool Rules."   Meet with all the parents before the carpool  starts and make sure you are all in agreement about things like seat belt use, music being played, food and drinks in car, etc.

• Make a written schedule of who drives when.  Having the schedule in writing ahead of time will avoid conflicts and misunderstandings later.

• Establish a set time and place for pick ups; i.e. 15 minutes before practice in front of the mailbox.  If each person knows when and where they need to be it will avoid tardiness and confusion.

• Learn some games and activities to keep the children occupied in case of delays due to road construction, bad weather, etc.

More carpool tips coming soon! 

Smooth Sailing!

Paula Farris

PS For more great ideas, including tips on carpooling, subscribe to our weekly travel tip ezine!  "Everywhere You Go"

http://www.paulafarris.goldphoria.com/page/page/3756093.htm

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