Before you get in the car again, take note of the following five things:
1. Car seat
Make sure the straps fit securely and that they are snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers into the harness at your child’s shoulder - you will need to keep adjusting this depending on what your little one is wearing.
2. Window and door safety
Your child is very curious so do make sure the doors have the child lock on and the electric windows in the back seat are locked. The last thing you want is to have your child open the door or catch their fingers in the window.
3. Eating and drinking
Make sure to avoid giving your youngster foods that are a choking hazard, like grapes, apples, carrots, popcorn, crisps, nuts, and raisins – you won’t be in a position to help your child if they get into difficulty.
4. Don’t leave them alone
Never leave your youngster alone in the car for any length of time. Temperatures inside the vehicle can reach an extra 20 degrees in ten minutes making it soar to 40°C or 50°C if it’s hot outside. Kids younger than four absorb more heat than older children and their body temperature can increase five times faster than a grownups.
5. Attach toys to their seat
The last thing you want to do is have to grab around for a teddy or toy that has fallen onto the ground or for your child to fling it at you while you are driving. Instead, attach it to their seat with a strap, but avoid using string or ribbon which can get caught around their neck.
