Review: Rand McNally Boredom Busters

Rand McNally recently introduced a series of innovative games and activities to keep kids entertained and families connected in the car. The Boredom Breakers™ products are designed to bring families together, encouraging conversation, laughter and fun. Rand McNally developed the five games based on extensive parent research. Moms across the country were clear about what they like - creative activities that make kids laugh and allow family members to learn more about one another - and what they don’t like - games with a lot of little pieces (Amen!).

We received the Magnet Message Makers, activity to try out and review, thanks to Rand McNally and Role Mommy. The Magnet Message Makers includes two reusable and removable magnets that will not harm your vehicle and five sheets of removable stickers for decorating the magnets. While these would be perfect for long car trips, the stickers were something my boys could not resist playing with right away. The very best part of this activity set are the two magnetic boards that come in the set. My boys could sit for long periods of time ( an uncommon event in our home!) placing stickers on their boards and changing them around. The stickers all came in themed sets such as cars, nature, beach day, and signs. This made it even more fun for my boys to create scenes on their magnet boards, remove the stickers and make new scenes. I was very impressed with this activity set and very happy to see my two munchkin boys happily involved in an activity side by side that kept them content for more than a few minutes!

The Boredom Breakers Line offers 5 activities which are sold separately at RandMcNally.com and Amazon.com. From the Rand McNally website:

"Story Starters: Packed with 72 minutes of funny stories, mysteries and games, this interactive CD will be an instant road trip hit. Story Starters combines the best of classic radio-style drama and audio effects to get families telling stories together. Hearing is truly believing!

Car Karaoke: Mom can sing lead and kids are back-up vocals. Just pop in the CD with 12 classic rock, pop, and kid favorite songs. Includes everything needed to be a rockstar: an inflatable microphone, rating cards, and three lyric books. Choose from favorites like “Build Me Up Buttercup” or “Twist and Shout,” to see who’s got the pipes in the family. Earplugs not included!

Car Game Countdown: Car games are fun, but they are even more outrageous when you’re trying to beat the clock. Car Game Countdown includes a car-shaped digital timer with electronic sound and laminated dual-sided game cards featuring 18 games on a clip ring.

Travel Card Games: Travel Card Games features three great games to pass time and start conversations. Includes a slim storage box to easily stow in the backseat pocket.

Magnet Message Makers: Magnet Message Makers is a mess-free way to get the kids and the car ready for the road . It includes two reusable and removable magnets that will not harm your vehicle and five sheets of removable stickers for decorating the magnets."

If you are planning a long car trip (or are just looking for fun activities for your family to enjoy together at home), the Rand McNally Boredom Breakers are something worth checking out!


Thanks to Role Mommy and Rand McNally who provided the product for review. The opinions expressed are my own.