Easy Ways To Keep Children Busy And Entertained During Train Journeys

Travelling with kids on a train can be an exciting adventure for the whole family. While it offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery, keeping children engaged throughout the journey can sometimes be a challenge. However, with a bit of creativity and planning, train travel can turn into a memorable experience filled with laughter and fun.

Games to play in train with family

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of travel games and activities designed to entertain kids of all ages during train journeys.

1. I Spy: This classic game is perfect for train travel. Choose an object within sight and say, “I spy with my little eye something…” and provide a clue about the object’s colour or shape. Encourage your kids to take turns guessing until they identify the object correctly. It’s a simple yet entertaining way to keep them engaged while observing their surroundings.
2. Travel Bingo: Create bingo cards with pictures of common train sights such as trees, tunnels, or animals. As your journey progresses, children can mark off each item they spot. The first one to complete a line or full card can win a small prize, adding an element of competition to the game.
3. Storytelling: Spark your child’s imagination by starting a collaborative storytelling session. Begin a story with a sentence, then have each family member take turns adding to the plot. This not only keeps kids entertained but also encourages creativity and communication skills.
4. Colouring and Activity Books: Pack a selection of colouring books, activity pads, and crayons to keep children occupied during quieter moments. These can provide hours of entertainment and are especially handy for preschoolers who may have shorter attention spans.
5. Snack Time: Plan a variety of snacks to keep hunger at bay and add an element of excitement to the journey. Pack a mix of healthy options like fruit slices, nuts, and cheese sticks along with some treats like biscuits or small chocolates. Snack time can also be an opportunity for a mini picnic at your seat, complete with a colourful blanket.

Also Read: Travelling With Babies and Toddlers? Here Are Some Healthy Snack Ideas

6. Travel Board Games: Compact travel versions of popular board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, or Chess are perfect for train journeys. Not only do they provide entertainment, but they also help develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
7. Memory Game: Challenge your children’s memory by playing a simple memory game. Place a few small items on a tray, let them study the items for a minute, then cover the tray and see how many items they can remember. This game is both engaging and educational, helping to improve observation and recall skills.
8. Window Art: Bring along washable window markers or crayons and let your children unleash their creativity by drawing on the train window (if permitted). They can create landscapes, funny characters, or simply scribble to their heart’s content, adding a touch of whimsy to the journey.
9. Alphabet Game: Start with the letter ‘A’ and take turns spotting objects outside the train or within the carriage that begin with each letter of the alphabet. For example, ‘A’ could be for ‘apple tree’ outside the window, ‘B’ for ‘bag’ someone is carrying, and so on. This game not only keeps kids engaged but also helps reinforce their knowledge of letters and objects.
10. Travel Journal: Encourage your children to document their train journey by keeping a travel journal. Provide them with a notebook and pens or pencils to write down their thoughts, draw pictures of what they see, or collect small mementoes like ticket stubs or leaflets. It’s a wonderful way for them to capture memories and practise their writing skills.
11. Storytime Podcasts: Load up a smartphone or tablet with child-friendly podcasts or audiobooks to listen to during the journey. Whether it’s classic fairy tales, adventure stories, or educational podcasts, audio entertainment can be a great way to pass the time and keep kids engaged.
12. Music and Sing-alongs: Create a playlist of your child’s favourite songs or nursery rhymes to listen to during the journey. You can also encourage sing-alongs and dance sessions in the aisle (if space allows), turning the train carriage into your own mini disco party.
13. Train-themed Crafts: Bring along some craft supplies like paper, scissors, glue, and stickers to create train-themed artwork. Children can make paper trains, decorate train-shaped cookies, or even construct simple models using materials like cardboard and tape. It’s a hands-on activity that encourages creativity and fine motor skills.
14. Scavenger Hunt: Prepare a list of items for your children to find during the journey, such as specific train announcements, types of train carriages, or station signs. Award points for each item they tick off the list, with a prize for the winner at the end of the journey.
15. Map Reading: If your children are old enough, involve them in navigating the journey using a map or train timetable. Help them locate your current position, identify upcoming stations, and estimate arrival times. It’s a fun way to teach basic geography and improve their understanding of travel logistics.

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Taking breaks

In addition to these activities, don’t forget the importance of breaks during longer train journeys. Take advantage of stops at stations to stretch your legs, explore the platform, and grab some fresh air. Many stations have interesting features or local attractions nearby, providing opportunities for mini-adventures along the way. Encourage your children to observe their surroundings, ask questions, and interact with fellow passengers, fostering a sense of curiosity and sociability. By combining structured activities with spontaneous exploration, you can create a well-rounded and enriching travel experience for your kids, making train journeys not just a means of transportation, but a cherished family adventure.

Also Read: What is the Difference Between Vacation and Holiday for Kids?

Travelling with kids on a train can be a rewarding experience filled with opportunities for bonding and adventure. By incorporating these engaging activities and games into your journey, you can ensure that your children remain entertained, stimulated, and happy throughout the trip. EuroSchool wishes happy travels for kids with their families.