Kids and car vacations. Let's face it --- the two don't mix very well. Most kids just don't appreciate scenic drives. And historical landmarks --- not high on the list of kid fun, unless the landmark is a theme park or a purple dinosaur statue. It's up to parents to help time on the road pass quickly, and a great way to do this is by playing games and singing songs. The suggestions below are sure-fire ways keep your kids occupied when the excitement and anticipation of a fun vacation fades into boredom.

1. License Plate Game: We've all played this, and there are few, if any, games better able to pass time. Here are just a few variations: Figure out personalized plates Count how many states you see, and award the child who gets the most Add the plate numbers immediately in front, or behind your car. This is a challenging math game sure to keep your kids entertained --- or tired from trying to do quick addition!

2. Word Association: Another favorite, this game is good for a few laughs and to pass time. One person says a word and another person yells out the first thing that comes to mind. Go around until the car goes quiet, or someone says "I didn't think of anything." For the extra-motivated, play the word association guessing game: think of a word or phrase (I'm thinking…be quiet) and challenge your kids to figure it out. It's up to you how many clues they get!

3. Name that Tune: If your kids are old enough to know the names of songs (and maybe the artist names) this is a fun memory game. It's very easy to play --- just select scan on the radio, and the first one to spout out the correct name gets a point. The first person to reach a pre-determined set of points gets to do something fun when you arrive at your destination.

4. What Does the Thing Say?: If your kids are too young for songs, point out interesting objects and animals they've seen in books. Example: What's that? A cow! What does the cow say? Mooo. This can be a fun way to pass the time for cranky toddlers.

5. Colors and Cars: Count specific colors on certain cars --- say, blue VW Beetles or Red Mini Vans. This can be great fun on crowded highways where there's not much to look at in the way of scenery. The winner gets to listen to a favorite song on the radio, or a similar prize designed to keep peace while in transit.

6. Sing-along: Add a twist to your favorite songs by making up lyrics and singing aloud. This can be challenging and a lot of silly fun!

No matter what games you play, have fun! Amusing your children can make for lively and silly travel, and is sure to melt the miles between your destinations. And don't be afraid to think up your own games. Just keep in mind that a good game includes counting, singing, and thinking in a silly way --- from license plates to farm animals on a scenic drive.