5 Ways to Maximize Your Time in the Car

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Spending lots of time in the car taking kids to sports and activities? Here are 5 ways to Maximize Your Time in the Car

I have alarms on my phone for all the things. When each child needs to be awoken. When the kids need to go to their various schools. And when they need to be taken to and picked up from their various activities. I like the backup of having my phone beep at me to remind me when it’s time to go to all of the places.

This year youngest twin is in the JROTC program at his school. Part of being in the program involves some after school practices. We live in Texas, so although it’s not a traditional sport marching outside in the heat means it’s important for the kids to stay hydrated and I always send him with something to eat after school as well.

Of course going to all the places means I spend a good amount of time each day in the car. Being a work at home, homeschooling, volunteering Mom makes it hard for me to hold still. And I was looking for ways to be more efficient with my time while still supporting my kids in their activities and getting them where they needed to go. So I wanted to share my top 5 ways to maximize your time in the car. If you’re kids are involved in traditional sports, or something a little non-traditional, all parents can relate to maximizing those hours on the go.

5 Ways to Maximize Your Time in the Car

1. Brainstorm: I often do my best thinking in the car. Usually when I’m alone and usually with the radio off or down lower. Sometimes I’m brainstorming a new knitting or crochet pattern. Sometimes I’m thinking about a blog post. Lately I’ve been thinking about the charity golf tournament I just helped run as the assistant chair. No matter what you are working on time in the car can give you some great quiet time to think and brainstorm ideas. Use the voice recorder on your phone to take notes of your ideas while you’re driving so it’s hands free.

2. Take a class: Have you always wanted to learn a new language or take a professional development class? Do it while you’re in the car! The app store offers free online courses from some universities.

3. Return phone calls: Again, I prefer to do this when I’m on my way to pick up a kid or just dropped them off so I’m alone in the car. Use hands-free equipment and return any phone calls while you are on the go.

4. Listen to a book: I love to read, but don’t always have time to actually sit down with a book. Our local library has some audio book options that are free and you can download the books to your smart phone. You can also listen to podcasts if that’s more your speed. Pick a topic and genre that interests you. Many of these are free as well!

5. Write: I realize that writing while driving sounds a little unique, but hear me out. Write using a voice to text program. A great way to write anything from emails to reports to the novel you’re working on. Many smart phones have a voice to text option but you can also download an app just for that.

Bonus 6. Keep drinks and snacks handy in the car: I learned this trick from my Mother-in-law. Always keep some extra drinks and snacks on hand in the car for hungry and thirsty kids. Especially when you’re picking them up after staying late at school for practice. Keep a soft-sided cooler in the car and toss in some cold drinks when you leave the house. Keep the box of snacks in the car always.

It was really handy to pick up a box of RITZ Bits Cracker Sandwiches, NABISCO Multipacks Savory Pack, and POWERADE® all on my latest trip to Walmart. And right now you can find two In-Store coupon options from NABISCO! Be on the lookout for a coupon neck hanger on POWERADE® (8pk 20oz) where you can Save $1.50 on NABISCO 20-pack Multipack. And also lookout for a coupon sticker on boxes of NABISCO snack packs for Savings of .75 when you purchase a 12-pack or larger NABISCO Multipack.

Are your kids involved in traditional sports or something a little non-traditional? Either way be sure to check out other ideas for being a sideline hero here!