Things to do on a road trip with kids: movement & sensory break ideas for an Easter adventure

There’s something nostalgic about a family road trip – car snacks, singalongs, the inevitable “Are we there yet?” But if you’re travelling with a child who has a disability, it can also bring a whole extra layer of planning, patience and preparation. If your child has physical, sensory, or communication needs, a long car ride can go from “fun family adventure” to “test of endurance” pretty quickly.

However, with a little thought and a flexible plan, road trips can still be full of memory-making moments. Taking regular movement or sensory breaks can make a huge difference – not just for your child’s comfort and wellbeing, but for the safety of everyone in the car.

Why Movement and Sensory Breaks Matter (Especially when disability is in the mix)

Long stretches in the car can be uncomfortable for any child – but for kids with disability, that discomfort can be amplified. Muscle tightness, limited mobility, sensory overload (or under-stimulation), communication barriers, or difficulties with self-regulation all come into play.

Children with sensory processing differences might feel overwhelmed by the motion of the car, the noise, or the confinement. Others might seek out sensory input – rocking, vocalising, kicking the seat – simply because their bodies and brains are trying to self-regulate. And for some children with physical disabilities, sitting in one position for too long can cause pain, fatigue or muscle stiffness.

These aren’t just challenges for your child – they can quickly become safety concerns too. According to a study by Monash University, children can be more distracting to drivers than mobile phones – in fact, they found kids are 12 times more likely to cause distraction behind the wheel than someone using a phone.

Another study published in Accident Analysis & Prevention found that drivers with child passengers were significantly more likely to be distracted, especially when those children had complex needs. So taking the time to plan in movement and sensory breaks isn’t just about making things more comfortable. It’s about keeping everyone safe.

You don’t need to plan anything elaborate. You just need to build in time and space for your child to regulate their body and brain. Here are some inclusive, road trip–friendly ideas:

1. Sensory Station in a Picnic Rug

Pull over somewhere safe and set up a sensory mat or blanket. Pack a few favourite fidget toys, a weighted lap pad, noise-cancelling headphones, and a calming chew or hand-held sensory item. A short break to decompress can prevent overwhelm building up over the next leg of the trip.

2. Supported Stretch and Move

If your child uses a wheelchair or has limited mobility, incorporate some gentle stretches. Even passive movement, like helping them reposition, rotate their shoulders, or gently stretch their legs, can relieve discomfort and reduce agitation.

If your child is ambulant but needs physical support or has coordination difficulties, find a flat, accessible spot where they can safely walk, skip, or play for a few minutes – with you or a sibling by their side.

3. Nature Time – on Their Terms

Many kids with sensory needs respond really well to nature – wind on their face, sunshine, leaves crunching underfoot. Plan your rest stops near parks or nature reserves with accessible paths so your child can safely enjoy being outside. If you’re lucky enough to find a quiet trail, let them explore the sights and sounds at their own pace.

4. Calming Audio or Music Play

If getting out of the car isn’t an option, offer a calming audio break. Load up some favourite music or an audiobook that helps regulate your child. You could even create an “Easter playlist” full of calming tunes and familiar favourites.

5. Portable Visual Schedule

Many children with intellectual disabilities or communication support needs feel safer when they know what to expect. A simple visual schedule – either printed or on a tablet – can help them understand when the next stop is coming, what will happen, and how long they’ll be in the car. Include photos of break locations or landmarks if possible.

Tips for a Safer, More Comfortable Drive

You know your child best – but these little tweaks can make a big difference:

• Plan for flexibility. If your child needs to stop more often, that’s okay. Don’t stress about the ETA. A calm trip is worth the extra time.
• Pack a ‘calm kit’. Include comfort items, sensory tools, medications, communication aids, and snacks. You might want to keep this within arm’s reach rather than in the boot.
• Use safety restraints that suit your child. Make sure your car seat or harness is not just safe, but also comfortable for your child’s physical and sensory needs.
• Tag-team driving if you can. If you’re travelling with another adult, share the driving so each of you can support your child during rest stops and avoid fatigue.
• Keep expectations realistic. Sometimes, even with the best planning, there’ll be meltdowns or unexpected challenges. That’s not a failure – it’s just part of travelling with kids who experience the world a little differently.

Finding Joy in the Journey

There’s something really special about piling into the car and heading off together, especially at Easter – when the weather’s still lovely, and the promise of hot cross buns is just around the corner.

Whether your break involves a full picnic stop or a five-minute sensory breather, each pause is a chance to connect, regulate, and reset. You don’t have to stick to a rigid plan – just make space for your child’s needs, follow their cues, and remind yourself that small adjustments can make a big difference.

Wishing you safe travels, calm kids, and a few scenic detours along the way!