Travel is hectic, tedious and frustrating for the most seasoned jet setter so now try mixing in 1 (or more) small children and you start to fear and want to plan for the worst.  Thanks to NPN parents, we have their list of secret weapons!  Here is an arsenal of ideas for your airplane bag.

Old School:

Etch-a-sketch or a Magna Doodle

Books and stickers

Paper and crayons

Playing cards – sort, stack, and pass them around!

Arts & cra...

Posted on May 23, 2013 at 7:00 AM by Sarah Cobb

Tips for Flying with Children this Summer

The summer travel season is right around the corner. While you may be excited to relax and get away, flying with an infant or toddler can be nerve-racking. Here are some tips to help you survive without breaking a sweat.

Buy the extra seat. It’s easier to keep your child seated and entertained when they are safely strapped into a car seat. It is tempting to save on airfare, but when you are fumbling for a wipe or another toy, it helps...

Posted on May 09, 2012 at 5:53 AM by Brandon Worth

For some spring break means sandy beaches, fruity drinks, and flip-flops.  But for many parents, it’s often a matter of “School’s out; what can we do to prevent meltdowns, breakdowns and general chaos?” If your budget is like mine (i.e. on the verge of extinction), a pricey flight is out of the question. A short car ride to a change of scenery is perfectly doable!  And that’s what I have planned.

When I mentioned to my daughters that I was thinki...

Posted on March 28, 2012 at 6:00 AM by Elisa Drake

Soooo... My kids bottle just fell on the ground in Varanasi, India- Near the Ganges River. I picked it up, licked it off, and gave it back to her. I know your cringing,.. but hey,... she’s a second child.  Any you have ALL done it before, just probably in a place like Starbucks.

I just returned from a 64 day trip through China, Indonesia, Nepal and India with my husband and two little girls (2.5 and 1). WHY would anyone with small children go to such places you ask? Well.......

Posted on February 23, 2012 at 9:00 AM by Mandy Moise

Fuel up and hit the road on one of these quick family-friendly road trips! BONUS #1: NPN Parent Perk - get the book for just $8 (ltd. availability) - Email to order. BONUS #2: RSVP for an adventure story time with Elisa at Kookaburra on 7/18 (space is ltd.).

GURNEE AREA, ILLINOIS

Stop Here:

Lambs Farm. Pygmy goats (and more) sidle up for rubs and kisses. Mini golf, kiddie train, old-fashioned carousel and cow bounce house too.

Six Flags Gr...

Posted on July 14, 2011 at 9:36 PM by Elisa Drake