Baby on board? Driving with a tiny tot in the car requires some planning and practice! Thankfully some careful planning goes a long way, so here are some simple measures to keep you and your baby safe and happy in the car.
Choose your timing
Timing is everything with a little one! Try to time your excursions for when your baby is napping and when they're not too full. For longer trips than just to the next shopping centre, be super organised. Also, plan stops along your route for feeding or changing.
Spare supplies
You can never be too prepared with a baby. So always keeping a bag of spare supplies in the boot is a good idea. Include nappies and wipes, a changing mat, spare bottles and milk, blankets, a change of clothes and a first aid kit.
Write a list
Make a plan and write out timings and a packing list before you leave. That way, you can make sure you're clear on where you're going and what you need to take. There are numerous apps that help you create a list, such as Asana, Todoist, Things or TickTick. If you have a rough idea of when you need to stop then you can pack accordingly, making it easy to simply reach into the boot and grab what you need with minimal fuss. It is helpful to have your to-do list with you, especially if everything turns out differently than planned.
An extra pair of eyes
It can be unsettling driving with a tiny baby in the back, especially if they make noises and you can't turn around to see them. Give yourself peace of mind by investing in a backseat mirror. This will enable you to safely keep an eye on them without distracting yourself from driving responsibly.
Consider entertainment
Most small babies will sleep on car journeys, but for older babies or longer drives you may want to provide some entertainment, whether it's a clip-on baby book, music or toys that hang overhead. Distracting them with these ideas is a great way to make sure that you can concentrate fully on getting both of you to your final destination safely.
Take a break
Finally, always be prepared to pull over if you need to. It's much safer to take a break than to continue driving if you're feeling tired or your baby is unsettled. Of course, some children suffer from car sickness, which can be so debilitating. If this happens regularly, speak to your doctor or pharmacist to see if there's any medication or herbal supplements that can make your little one feel better.
