Traveling by car with a child can be stressful, especially if you have a lot of kilometers to go. Careful planning will help you avoid common obstacles so your journey runs smoothly. Read on to ensure a smooth ride with your child.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Using a Child Seat
Step 1. Choose the right car seat
Security should be your top priority. It is absolutely crucial to buy a car seat that is suitable for your child's age and weight. There are three basic models on the market: rear-facing seats for babies under 16 kg only, combined seats for newborns-toddlers (they can be placed in the opposite direction to that of travel for children under 20 kg and then turned for those in the first steps) and seats designated for children aged four and over, which are boosters to be placed on the back seat, therefore the children must be tied with the car seat belts.
- If possible, buy the seat before the baby is born. If you are going to travel by car, you will need to take it home from the hospital or clinic. The earlier you become familiar with the seat (and the manual, which must be read carefully), the easier it will be to use it when needed.
- If your family has two cars, you might want to buy a car seat. The extra expense might be worth it. In fact, it will save you time in the future and prevent errors caused by hasty installation and switching from one vehicle to another.
Step 2. Install the seat correctly
It should be placed in the back seat of the car, possibly in the center. Read the instructions in the manual twice to make sure you do a good job. Make sure all risers and safety straps are in place. If your child is a newborn, the seat should be facing away from the direction of travel: this position is best for babies.
In many places, you can go to the police or fire station (sometimes other places also offer this service) to have the installation of the seat checked professionally. Search online to find out more about local options. If you live in the United States, for example, you can click on https://www.safercar.gov/cpsApp/cps/index.htm, where it is easy to search by entering the zip code
Step 3. Learn about the laws
Regulations for this vary in different countries, so always check them to make sure you have safe and appropriate items.
Part 2 of 4: Prepare the Vehicle
Step 1. Have the car inspected
If you plan to drive a significant distance, take the car to the dealership or mechanic before setting off. It is better to encounter a problem before you leave than to run into an unexpected difficulty in the middle of the journey. If necessary, repair or replace the defective parts.
Don't neglect the air conditioning. You will need to be sure that the temperature of the machine is pleasant for the baby
Step 2. Buy removable sunshades
The child should not be exposed to direct sunlight, so buy this item for the windows. When driving, check to make sure your baby's face and eyes are protected from the sun.
Step 3. Remove dangerous items
You should not leave any sharp objects near the seat, whether the child can reach it or not. Should you suddenly brake, turn hard or have an accident, these items could be dangerous. Cover the metal elements within reach of the child, as they could heat up in the sun and burn him.
Step 4. Buy a mirror
It may be helpful to purchase a portable mirror and place it in front of you so that you can clearly observe the child from the front seat of the car. You will be able to control him more easily and he will be able to see you too.
Step 5. Decorate the windows
A few removable stickers in bright colors will keep the child busy during the trip. Just avoid choosing images that are large enough to interfere with your vision. Safety first of all.
Step 6. Make sure the baby has a light source
If you are traveling at night, you may want to bring a soft light source with you so that the baby is not afraid. Choose one that is not too bright to avoid it interfering with your driving.
Step 7. Fill up
Starting the journey with a full tank will save you an additional stop. In addition, the child will be exposed to less fumes caused by the evaporation of the fuel.
Part 3 of 4: Packing for the Trip
Step 1. Bring enough nappies and wipes with you
Add more and more, even if you don't think you'll need them. That way, you won't find yourself running out of diapers in the middle of the ride.
Wet wipes aren't just useful for changing nappies. You can also use them to clean your hands and freshen your baby's face
Step 2. Prepare the necessary food supplies
If the baby drinks milk from the bottle, take the supplies with you, plus the extras. The journey may take longer than expected, and you may find it difficult to wash them. Make sure you have enough formula if your baby is being fed with this product. Have you started eating solid foods? These items will also be needed.
Step 3. Bring water and snacks for you
If you are breastfeeding, you will need to eat regularly and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and to maximize milk production. However, you should eat well and drink even if you are not breastfeeding. You will be more attentive to driving and in a better mood.
Step 4. Don't forget the blankets and towels
A cover can come in handy on the go. You can use it to support the baby's head on the seat, to cover him while he sleeps and as an extra layer if he is cold. Towels, on the other hand, are needed for the surfaces on which you will change the diaper. Spread one on the car seat to do this (waterproof and / or disposable pads are also fine in this regard). You could also use them to wipe the drool or to clean the baby when it gets dirty.
Don't leave blankets on the seat if you can't always see what the baby is doing. It's important to make sure they don't choke him
Step 5. Pack extra clothes for you and the baby
The baby could get dirty with food, spit, or make other messes, so it's best to have spare clothes for both you and him.
Step 6. Put some garbage bags in the car
You will need them for diapers, litter and food scraps. Arrange them in one spot until you find a place to throw them.
Step 7. Think about entertainment
A few soft toys will keep the child busy for part of the journey. The bows with toys to attach to the seat are an excellent investment for younger children. You can also add music that your child likes or that helps him fall asleep.
Don't give him hard toys - they can be dangerous while the car is running
Step 8. Have important phone numbers handy
You should have access to the pediatrician's and emergency services. Write them down on your mobile and / or on a piece of paper. You may not need it, but you never know: the baby could get sick or have another problem.
Step 9. Put a standard first aid kit and necessary medications in the car
Your car should also be prepared from this point of view. Also, bring along a thermometer, fever-lowering medications, rash creams, and any other medications your baby may need.
Part 4 of 4: Traveling by Car with Your Child
Step 1. Consult your pediatrician
If it's going to be a long journey, take the baby to his doctor first. He can assess the health of the child and give you suggestions for the experience.
Step 2. Let the child get used to the car seat
If you don't travel often by car, you need to acclimate it. Place it there for a few times before you leave, letting it play and / or take a nap. This will reduce the chances of protest once you are on the road.
Step 3. Only leave if you are well
Your child's health is important, but yours is too. You should be healthy and fit before you travel, especially if you are the only one driving.
Step 4. Think about delays
Remember that you will need to stop frequently to feed, change, and pet. If such a trip used to last six hours, plan at least eight or nine with a baby.
If the delay becomes significant and the journey is too long, you could stay overnight in a hotel. This will give you a chance to rest and recharge before driving again
Step 5. Have someone accompany you if possible
If you can, have an adult keep you company on the trip. Knowing that you can count on another person to chat, drive and entertain your child will make the journey more enjoyable and less tiring.
Step 6. Try to leave at a time when your baby usually sleeps
Some parents find that trips are calmer starting at night or at nap time. In this way, the baby will sleep for a substantial part of the journey.
Every child is different, so you need to think about what they will tolerate best. If you think it is best to leave when the baby is awake and lively, you can also do it this way
Step 7. Dress the baby in layers
Depending on the climatic conditions, you will need to dress the child in several layers of clothing so that he does not suffer from either heat or cold. A onesie and a pair of socks can form the base layer. If necessary, you will add more clothes.
Step 8. Feed the baby and change it before leaving
Take care of their basic needs before you travel. If the baby is warm, dry and with a full tummy, the tantrums will be less. Plus, you'll be able to leave without any problems and drive for a long time instead of stopping earlier than necessary.
Step 9. Take frequent breaks
Both you and your child will be better off if you rest every two or three hours. Determine when you will take a break so that you can feed him and not interrupt his routine.
- When you make a short stop to feed him, make sure he burps. This will reassure you because you will know that the baby will not have an upset stomach during the trip.
- As good as the baby appears to be, it is ideal to periodically stop and get out of the car. Breathe in some fresh air and take a stroll will do both of you good. Also, the baby should not be forced into a car seat for long, especially if it is a newborn. In particular, consider making unplanned stops when you see a park or other perfect spot for a stroll.
Step 10. Try singing
If the child starts having tantrums, try singing. You don't have to be good: the child doesn't care. Your voice will be soothing and will let him know you are there.
Step 11. Never feed him while driving
Do not give him a bottle or any food while the car is running, as the baby may choke, swallow too much air or vomit. If he needs to eat, stop the car.
Step 12. Do not remove the child from the seat while the car is in motion
Stop if you have to get him off. It is unsafe (and illegal) to unfasten the seat belts while the car is running.
Step 13. Pay attention to the parking lot
Make sure you park so that you have enough space to open the rear doors. The part of the car with the seat should not be on the roadside, where other cars pass.
Advice
- Don't forget to pay attention to your needs. If you are hungry, tired, distracted or stressed, stop temporarily and take a break.
- Try to stay as relaxed as possible. The child could have a lot of tantrums. It is preferable that you keep an optimistic attitude, talk to the child in a joyful voice and think of the trip as if it were a fun adventure. This will be good for both of you.
