Being a parent is never easy. You worry about every little thing from whether your baby is sleeping too much or not enough to whether they are warm enough or too cold, and it can drive you crazy! It is not surprising, then, that when it comes to taking your baby off out on an adventure in the car, your anxiety can go wild.
The thing is, most of us do need to take baby out in the car from time to time, so it is important to get any anxiety around doing so sorted sooner, rather than later. Here are a few things that will help with that.
1. Upgrade to a Safer Family Car
One thing that will really help you to feel safe with a baby on board is having a car that is known to be safe and secure for the whole family. Vehicles like Land Rover Cars, for example, are built with safety and security on and off the road, in mind, They are also spacious enough that you can cart around the kids with any problem, so if you can afford to do so (and I know babies are expensive), and if you have some anxiety around the whole driving issue, then upgrading could be a good idea,
Okay, but what safety features should you be looking for? We’re talking about advanced airbag systems, high safety ratings, and enough gadgets to make James Bond jealous, for starters!
2. The Throne of Safety: A Car Seat Fit for Royalty
Investing in a high-quality car seat is non-negotiable. This isn’t the place to cut corners by using Aunt Edna’s hand-me-down from the ’80s. Get a car seat that’s appropriate for your baby’s age, weight, and height and make sure it’s properly installed. It should be as snug and secure as a bug in a rug.
Regularly check the fit of the car seat as your baby grows faster than a teenager’s appetite. Adjust the straps and settings to ensure they’re always safely cocooned in their little safety throne.
3. Distraction Dilemmas: Keeping Baby Entertained
Now, let’s talk entertainment. A bored baby is a recipe for a car ride filled with wailing that could shatter glass. Keep a selection of soft, safe toys in the car, and consider a baby mirror so they can see you (and you can see them). It’s like having in-car entertainment, minus the subscription fee.
4. Drive Like You’re Transporting a Carton of Eggs
Adjust your driving style. Imagine you’re transporting a carton of eggs on the passenger seat – eggs that can cry and scream if jostled too much. Smooth acceleration, gentle braking, and taking corners like you’re in a slow-motion movie will make the ride smoother for your little one.
5. Plan and Prep: The Scout’s Motto for Driving
Plan your journeys like a military operation. Avoid rush hour, plan your route to include baby-friendly pit stops, and always have an emergency baby kit in the car – nappies, wipes, snacks, the works. It’s like having a survival kit, but for baby-related disasters.
6. The Art of the Quick Exit
It’s never a bad idea to learn the art of the quick and efficient exit, although you will hopefully never need to use it. The less time you spend faffing about getting the baby and the baby paraphernalia out of the car, the better, especially if something goes wrong.
7. Regular Maintenance: Keep Your Car in Tip-Top Shape
Keeping your car well-maintained is a real no-brainer if you are looking for things that will make you feel safer when your baby is riding with you. The last thing you want is to break down with a baby on board, and you probably won’t if you look after your car. Regular services, tyre checks, and oil changes are not optional – you’re a responsible parent now, after all.
8. Baby on Board Sign: More Than Just Decor
Should you consider a ‘Baby on Board’ sign? It couldn’t hurt. Some people think they are nothing more than a gimmick, but if they can make even one person slow down or think about driving more safely around you, it will be worth it.
9. Stress Management: Keeping Your Cool
Want to feel safe? You absolutely need to work on managing your stress around the situation. Driving with a baby can be nerve-wracking, but a calm driver makes for a calm baby, and of course, when you’re calm, you’re less likely to panic and make mistakes on the road, right?
10. Emergency Contacts on Speed Dial
In the unlikely event of an emergency, having emergency contacts on speed dial can be a lifesaver because chances are you might start to panic at this point. So, make sure you know where the nearest hospital is and keep a list of emergency numbers in your glove compartment.
11. The Right Temperature: Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
Do what you can to maintain a comfortable temperature in the car. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, so it’s important to ensure they’re not too hot or too cold.
12. Avoid Heavy Traffic: Time Your Trips
Try to time your trips to avoid heavy traffic. There’s nothing more frustrating than being stuck in a traffic jam with a crying baby. It’s about as fun as a visit to the dentist, and at least the dentist usually gives you a lollipop at the end.
13. Safety Checks: The Ritual Before Every Ride
Develop a ritual of safety checks before every ride. Check the car seat, make sure there are no loose items that could become projectiles, and ensure the doors are locked and windows are appropriately adjusted. It’s like the pre-flight checklist for a pilot, but for your car.
14. Keeping It Clean: A Tidy Car is a Safer Car
Keep the car clean and tidy. Not only is it more pleasant, but it also prevents the accumulation of germs and allergens. Plus, it reduces the risk of choking hazards for when baby starts to explore. It’s like your living room, but with wheels.
15. The Art of Distraction: Soothing Sounds and Toys
Soft, soothing sounds can help calm a fussy baby. Consider a playlist of gentle lullabies or classical music. Additionally, having a couple of safe, soft toys within baby’s reach can provide distraction and entertainment. It’s like having a pacifier, but in the form of music and toys.
16. Regular Breaks: Good for Baby, Good for You
On longer trips, it’s always a good idea to plan for regular breaks. Babies need to stretch, have their nappies changed, and feed just like adults need a coffee and a stretch. Not only will you both feel better, but you will stay fresh which means you will stay alert when you are driving and this means it is less likely any accidents will take place. It will give you peace of mind.
17. Keep an Eye on Baby: Mirrors and Monitors
Why not consider investing in a baby mirror or a car seat monitor? This will enable you to see your little one and what they are up to, without you having to turn around and fully take your eyes off the road. Again this will reassure you and give you the peace of mind you need.
As you can see, a baby on board does not have to make you feel anxious, or make them unsafe. After all, most parents drive their little ones and they are just fine!
