We There Yet, MOMMY? Tips When Driving With Kids

Every new parent would agree on one common thing- that they had to change their driving approach and habits considerably when embarking on a trip with their little munchkins.

Those highway daredevils (once-upon-a-time) who never shied from pushing the speedometer, who often laughed (even mocked) in the face of traffic cops; have morphed into a doting, law-abiding, mini-van loving parent who now cruises sluggishly at 60 mph with the patience of a turtle.

Becoming a parent changes most people. Having to tow you tiny temperamental toddlers and hormonal pre-teens force you to re-consider your good-old daredevil driving habits. Simply because, regardless of how much things get complicated for you, those cute kids are the ones you love and cherish the most in the world.

Another revealing fact which emphases this need-for-change in your driving habits is; a fair % of death among kids (aged 2-12) result due to irresponsible and rash driving.

Being a parent, the last thing you want is your loving kids coming to any harm- mainly due to your fault.

To avoid such unthinkable catastrophes, driving school instructors operating in Waverley suggest these safety tips for parents to follow when driving with kids on a highway.

• Ensure all your kids who are aged 12 or under ride in the back seat. These driving instructors clearly point out that kids are not big enough to be sitting in the front seat. They should only do so if they have entered their teen-hood.
  
  
• You should always keep your eyes on the road ahead. It can be difficult with your carefree children at the back making all sorts of noise and distracting you every 10-seconds or so. But, you need to avoid giving in to their distractions and only pay attention to the task at hand- which is driving at a steady speed using those viewing mirrors at every 15-second interval.
  
  

Don’t think for a second that by not paying attention to your kid’s calling or distractions you are being a bad parent. If anything; you are doing what’s necessary – which is driving responsibly and keeping them safe!

• If the journey is too long, then driving instructors recommend stopping and taking a break every couple of hours. Follow this advice and allow your kids to get out and stretch their tender muscles as sitting in a car for too long isn’t healthy. Doing so also allows you some time to relax, eat, drink, or do anything to refuel your body.
  
  
• Before you embark on the journey, be sure to pack ample snacks, chocolates, and your kid’s’ favourite board game. This will keep them more occupied at the back; reduce distractions, noisy fights among siblings and spare you from their constant query – ‘We there yet, mommy/daddy!’
  
  
• Unless your mini-van consists of a teen passenger, it is a good idea to remove the airbags which are specifically designed to safeguard adults weighing approximately 160 pounds! The reason being, if they open suddenly in a confined space against a tender toddler, it can harm or maim them.
  
  
• Ensure everyone at the back is wearing their seat-belt, Make this a non-negotiable rule. Also, make it a point to check if they are bucked up at every driving interval- for your peace of mind.
  
  
• Another good tip pointed by notable driving school trainers operating in and across Clarinda is to take the trip at night. Your kids will most likely sleep thus sparing you from all their noise, distractions and questions.
  
  

Night driving does come with its own set of complications. But, if you are a seasoned driver who is well—versed with all defensive driving skills, then you will not find it to be a problem.

Look to follow these driving tips whenever you embark on your next trip with your children. Not only will these keep them safe at the back; but it will also make your task easier!