Traveling with Kids: 6 Ways to Shift Your Thinking for a Calmer Trip

DC Area Moms Blog

Travel with little ones can bring equal parts excitement and stress. You plan, pack, and prepare — yet somehow the chaos of flights, naps, and snacks can still feel overwhelming.

In my article on DC Moms, I explore how much of that stress actually starts with our thinking — not the trip itself. Drawing on tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I share six practical ways to reframe worry, soothe anxious thoughts, and bring more calm and compassion to your family travels.

Whether you’re navigating a long flight or a road trip with toddlers, these mindset shifts can help you approach challenges with more flexibility — and a lot more grace.

Author

Dr. Emma Basch, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist

I’m Dr. Emma Basch, a licensed clinical psychologist and perinatal mental health specialist based in Washington, DC. I support women and birthing people through the many transitions of parenthood — from pregnancy and postpartum to identity, anxiety, and beyond. My goal is to help you feel grounded, connected, and confident in who you are — both as a parent and as a person.

To learn more about my approach, work or to schedule a free consultation, click below.