Travelling safe with kids in the car these holidays
Child safety is especially important when travelling. The most dangerous thing we do with our children is drive with them in a car – which places them at risk them at risk of injury almost every day.
Many kids get bored on long road trips, sometimes fight with each other and need stimulation in order to keep them settled and happy. This, of course, is a problem when your attention needs to be focused on driving.
Some suggestions for driving more safely with children in the car:
1. Whatever the regulations at your destination or en route, you will need good child car seats.
2. Pack the car before you put children inside – and allow them enough room. Make sure nothing can fly loose that will obstruct you while driving or hurt your children.
3. Removable shades for windows are a good idea to protect children from sun and glare.
4. On long trips, consider travelling through the night or early morning, times when children are more likely to sleep during the journey – but obviously don’t drive if you are tired.
5. Pack lightweight blankets, especially for younger children, to comfort them and keep them warm when they sleep.
6. Pack healthy snacks and water. You’ll know what your children will and won’t eat. Refrain from packing too many sweets, crisps and fizzy drinks. Hyperactivity in a car is no fun.
7. Give older children maps with locations to check off as they are reached and let them feel they are helping to navigate. Or take a homemade “map” for younger children with highlights to look out for.
8. Play games like “I Spy” and other interactive guessing games can keep the mood lighthearted and the kids entertained.
9. Have regular toilet stops: Allow the children to be able to run around, stretch and let off some steam. This will prevent cabin fever and boredom. Having fun on unplanned stops makes the drive much more exciting. Stop at service stations or rest areas with children’s playgrounds or play rooms.
10. Avoid losing your temper: Going crazy is only going to increase the stress of everyone in the car.
11. Reward good behaviour: Using incentives such as “no complaining for the next hour means a stop at an ice cream stand”. Or “leaving your sibling alone gets some one-on-one time with Mom or Dad in the pool”. Use this strategy in reverse, too.