MATERIALS:  County or state map (optional), paper, pencil

This idea is useful if you plan to drive forty-five minutes or more.  Beforehand, draw a simple map of your trip, -- with your children -- marking each good-sized town or city you'll drive through.  Also mark in any landmarks or familiar sights (the Coppertone billboard, a skyscraper, a favorite restaurant) along the way.  You don't have to put a lot of time into making the map.  Either help your children draw the map freehand, or they can trace a county or state map, marking in towns and landmarks selectively.

To help the children keep track of where they are, number the locations on the map.  Then instead of the wearying "How long before we there?" you'll hear an authoritative "That was number five.  Three more towns to go!"