Your baby is the center of your world, and you’d do anything to protect your little one. Knowing how to drive safely with your child in the car is vital as you embark into the world of parenting.
Using common sense and caution when driving is important, but there are other steps you can take to maximize your child’s safety. Here are five safe driving tips to help protect your baby on the road.
1.Get the right car seat.
Baby car seats are not one size fits all. As your baby grows, you’ll need to adjust your car seat to ensure the best fit for your infant. Check out safekids.org for car seat guidelines for kids of all ages.
2.Buy a baby-view mirror.
Baby-view mirrors are absolutely genius. They cost around $20 and allow you to see how your child is doing without turning to look in the backseat.
3.Use a pacifier clip.
Always have a pacifier at hand by clipping one to your child’s car seat with a pacifier clip. That way you’ll never lose it in the cracks and crannies of your car, and you’ll always be equipped to soothe your infant.
4.Invest in sunshades.
Static cling window shades are perfect for protecting your baby from the heat and glare of the sun. You will keep your child safe from harmful UV rays and from the discomfort of having the sun in his or her eyes.
5.Stock up on car-safe toys.
You shouldn’t give your baby hard or heavy toys in the car. Instead, go for light, squishy ones that won’t hurt him or her if there’s a bump in the road.
As a new parent, you’re bound to be nervous putting your baby in the car for the first time. Be as safe as you can possibly be by doing your research and investing in these few important items. Something as simple as a sunscreen can make all the difference for your little one on the road.
Image by Pascal via flickr, licensed under CC by 2.0