My Experience With The Best Travel Tray For Toddlers
As a mother of two young children, I know firsthand the struggles of traveling with toddlers. One of the biggest challenges is keeping them occupied and happy during long car rides or flights. That’s why I decided to invest in a travel tray for my youngest child, who is two years old.
What is a Travel Tray?
A travel tray is a portable, flat surface that attaches to a car seat or stroller. It provides a space for children to play, eat, or draw while on the go. Most travel trays come with pockets for storing snacks and toys, and some even have built-in cup holders.
Why Use a Travel Tray?
Travel trays are a great way to keep toddlers entertained and engaged during long trips. They provide a safe and secure space for children to play with toys, draw pictures, or eat snacks. Travel trays also help to prevent spills and messes, as they provide a stable surface for cups and plates.
Step-by-Step Guide for Choosing the Best Travel Tray for Toddlers
- Consider the size and shape of your child’s car seat or stroller. Make sure the travel tray you choose will fit securely.
- Look for a travel tray with a non-slip surface to prevent toys and food from sliding around.
- Choose a travel tray with pockets or storage compartments to keep toys and snacks organized.
- Consider a travel tray with a built-in cup holder to prevent spills.
- Look for a travel tray that is easy to clean, as toddlers can be messy eaters.
- Choose a travel tray with adjustable straps or clips to ensure a secure fit.
- Consider a travel tray with a detachable top for easy cleaning and storage.
- Read reviews from other parents to get an idea of the pros and cons of different travel trays.
- Choose a travel tray that fits your budget.
- Consider the durability and quality of the travel tray, as you want it to last for multiple trips.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Using a Travel Tray with Toddlers
- Bring a variety of toys and activities to keep your child entertained.
- Use the pockets and compartments to store snacks, toys, and books.
- Encourage your child to draw pictures or color on the tray with washable markers.
- Use the tray as a flat surface for playing with small toys or building blocks.
- Bring a small pillow or cushion to prop up the tray for younger children.
- Use the tray as a surface for playing games or doing puzzles.
- Bring a portable DVD player or tablet to watch movies or TV shows.
- Pack healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and crackers to keep your child fueled and satisfied.
- Bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket for your child to snuggle with.
- Use the tray as a surface for playing with magnetic toys or games.
Pros and Cons of Using a Travel Tray with Toddlers
Pros:
- Keeps children entertained and engaged during long trips.
- Provides a safe and secure space for playing, eating, and drawing.
- Helps to prevent spills and messes.
- Easy to clean and store.
- Adjustable straps or clips ensure a secure fit.
Cons:
- Can be bulky and take up space in the car or stroller.
- May not fit securely on all car seats or strollers.
- Some travel trays may not be as durable or long-lasting as others.
- May not be suitable for all types of toys or activities.
My Personal Review and Suggestion on the Best Travel Tray for Toddlers
After researching and trying out several travel trays, I would highly recommend the Kids Travel Tray by Nuby. It fits securely on both car seats and strollers, has a non-slip surface, and comes with multiple pockets and compartments for storage. It also has a built-in cup holder and is easy to clean. My two-year-old daughter loves playing with her toys and coloring on the tray during long car rides. Overall, I am very satisfied with my purchase and would highly recommend this travel tray to other parents.
Question & Answer / FAQs
Q: What age range is a travel tray suitable for?
A: Travel trays are typically suitable for children ages 2-5.
Q: Can I use a travel tray on an airplane?
A: Yes, travel trays can be used on airplanes as long as they fit securely on the tray table.
Q: Are travel trays machine washable?
A: It depends on the specific travel tray. Some are machine washable, while others require hand washing or wiping down with a damp cloth.
Q: Can I use a travel tray in a restaurant?
A: Yes, travel trays can be used in restaurants as a flat surface for eating or playing.