Naughty kids? Take them for a road trip, study says
New research has revealed the benefits of taking poorly-behaved children for a long driveTaking your naughty children on a family road trip might be one of the best things you could do for them, according to new research.
And no, we’re not suggesting you leave them behind upon arriving at your far-away destination. You’ll need to bring them home to find out if their behaviour has improved.
Jokes aside, the fresh study comes from the International Drivers Association (IDA), which claims to have gathered compelling evidence to show that road travel can significantly improve children’s behavioural development.
It’s also said to encourage learning and personal growth, with IDA spokesperson Julianna Marshall saying a road trip is much more than a mode of transportation.
“It presents a unique situation that necessitates children to utilise skills they might not regularly use,” says Marshall.
Digging deeper into the research, participants reported more opportunities to bond and spend quality time together during road trips, as well as improving communication, strengthening family ties, creating memories, connecting with extended family and family friends, and developing patience.
It’s also an opportunity to repair damaged relationships, according to IDA, because what better way to pass the time than to discuss your differences?
But when it comes to family time, “road trips present an opportunity to dive deeper into discussions, share experiences, and build a stronger bond with your children” according to Marshall, but there are psychological benefits to be had for the little ones, too.
According to the IDA, child psychologists are on board with road trips, saying they can play a significant role in alleviating stress and boosting mental health in children.
“The constant stimuli provided by changing scenery and new experiences can help distract children from everyday stressors,” said Marshall.
Such stimuli can not only take children out of their everyday routine but also contribute to their overall well-being, fostering peace, calm, and serenity that could have lasting impacts on the child's behaviour, said IDA.
Add to that, time away from screens and other distractions, new things to look at out the window, and a sense of adventure, all of which can help families reconnect and parents to fully engage with their children.
Key skills developed by kids on road trips:
- Patience: Road trips often involve long hours on the road, which demand patience
- Respect: Sharing limited space for an extended period requires understanding, mutual respect, and tolerance
- Responsibility: Kids can take on tasks such as map-reading, packing, or keeping track of items, helping them learn responsibility
- Communication: The open environment prompts more conversations, affecting language development and communication skills
- Adaptability: Changes and surprises can happen on the road, which will encourage adaptability and flexibility
Related: How to entertain kids on a road trip
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