Driving with Infants: Tips for New Parents

I remember bringing my first child home some 38 years ago. It was easy…my husband drove. It took a couple weeks before I finally made MY first drive. I remember the fear and anxiety like it was yesterday. I hope sharing this post will make it easy for you to take that first trip together.

​This link came in an email from Morgan Coleman and The Barnes Firm. Please feel free to share this link/post with anyone who’s expecting. It would make my day, Morgan’s too. We both love being helpful?!
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                         And that link: thebarnesfirm.com/driving-with-infants-tips-for-new-parents/


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​                                                                                                                                       #1. Choosing the best seat
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This is one of the most important choices you’ll make for your baby. Here’s the original checklist:
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• Rear-facing seats with a secure 5-point harness
• Easy-to-read level indicators
• Lightweight carriers with ergonomic handles (That are easy to use. Yes, please!)
• Models that click into a stroller base for convenience (I wish I’d had this!)
• Convertible seats, if you want a longer-term option (And this too!)

 
Three additional things to consider…Make sure your seat is free from product recalls and that you don’t see any defects (if it’s been in an accident, walk away). Finally think about your routine, car size, and the number of times you’ll pull that seat in and out. Back in my day, we eyeballed ours and picked the one that looked best.

 
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#2. Installing that car seat
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Installing the seat correctly is as important as selecting it. Here’s the original list:
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• Follow both the car seat and vehicle manuals closely
• The seat should not move more than an inch in any direction when installed
• Do not use the LATCH system and seatbelt together (I’d check the manuals for this one.)
• Keep the harness snug and the chest clip at armpit level (This is the only tip I’ve used so far. I buckle my grandson in whenever I’m his chauffer. I have to make sure they’re in the right position every single time I drive him around😊)
• Check for expiration dates and never use a seat that has been in a crash (If you’re in one…get a new car seat too.)

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​                                                                      #3. Never hold your baby while the car’s moving
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When a baby cries or needs a bottle, all you want to do is pick them up. Don’t. It’s super dangerous. You can’t protect them from harm in a car, even if you’re in a low-speed crash. I’m not going to imagine it at a higher speed.

It’s also illegal. Babies and small children must ride in the back seat, facing backwards, properly secured and buckled into that car seat. It’s the only way to keep them safe. But, there’s an option…I use it all the time…I buckle in beside baby!
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            #4. Make a quick safety check before driving away
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​Get ready for take-off! Here’s the original list from the website:
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• Confirm the car seat is still secure and anchored.
• Check that the harness is correctly positioned.
• Make sure the temperature inside the car is comfortable.
• Stock the diaper bag and emergency kit. (I’d stock the bag the night before. Then double check before I load baby into the car seat.)
• Adjust mirrors so you can check on your baby without turning around. (There’s a new camera/mirror that lets you see baby’s face while you drive. Amazing!)

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                                                                                                           #5. Never leave baby alone in the car
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Cars heat up quickly, and babies can’t hold their body temperature steady. If they’re left alone, baby could suffocate, have a heat stroke, or even be kidnapped. It’s also illegal in many states. You might think you’ll only be gone a few minutes, but it’s just not worth the consequences if something goes wrong.

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    #6. Minimize distractions so you can focus on driving
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When baby’s crying, it’s excruciating for anyone, especially a new parent.  Here’s the original list of tips:

• Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb.”
• Avoid eating, texting, or multitasking.
• Use a baby-safe mirror so you can glance back without turning. (I’ve watched my daughter use hers. It’s amazing!)
• Keep toys or pacifiers in reach, but only hand them to your baby while parked. (You can even attach both to the car seat. It’s great for older babies.)

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                                                                                                                        7. If your baby is crying, it’s OK to pull over
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​Having a baby screaming from the backseat can push any parent’s buttons. The simplest solution—look for a safe place to pull over and fix what’s bothering baby. There’s no shame in it; it’s what smart parents do for baby, for themselves, and for everyone’s safety.


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Tips for Reducing Stress While Driving as a New Parent​

-  What to Pack in Your Baby Travel Kit
-  Planning Feedings and Diaper Changes
-  Keeping Your Baby Cool and Comfortable in the Car
-  Soothing Your Baby While You’re Behind the Wheel
-  Baby-Friendly Safety Gear for a Less Stressful Drive
-  Frequently Asked Questions About Driving With a Newborn
​-  More Driving Safety Resources and Tools for New Parents