Taking your child for a walk or to the park is a great way to get some exercise and spend quality time with your little one.
However, as many parents know, keeping up with a walking toddler can be a challenge. Sometimes it’s easier just to let them go at their own pace while you keep up with them.
Sometimes, they want to go places that are farther away than you want to walk, and that is okay! More often than not, they end up having fun anyway.
The real test comes when you need to get somewhere quickly. Whether it be somewhere in the house, the car, or somewhere outside, you need to have quick transportation. That is where bikes and walks can sometimes fail you.
This article will talk about different ways you can transport yourself and your child safely and quickly to their desired destination.
Tell the child that they are going to get into a car
Even if the child has ridden in a car before, they will need some reassurance that everything is going to be okay. They may be nervous about getting into a car with a stranger, too.
Children can feel more comfortable if they have some control over the situation. Let them pick the music they want to listen to on the drive or let them tell you which way to go.
Put all of your luggage in the trunk or back of the car before bringing your child over. This way, they do not have to worry about things falling on them or being pushed around while getting into the car.
Have them sit in the back seat so that they can sit comfortably and still get out easily if needed to make sure they are safe and comfortable in the car.
Ensure that all of your children are properly secured by seat belts
Child safety seats vary depending on the age of the child. For very young children, a car seat is used until they are able to safely stay in their seat with a belt on for an extended period of time.
For older children, a booster seat or lap belt is used until they are tall enough for the shoulder and lap belts to fit properly. Many times these require that the child can sit upright without help and can follow directions.
Children of all ages need your constant supervision when in a car. Children are particularly prone to distraction due to their lower level of cognitive development.
Make sure to tell your child several times that they need to stay seated and sit still for their safety. Tell them that if they need to move around then they must get out of their seat and walk around outside of the car.
Do not have any alcoholic beverages before getting into the taxi
It is best to not have any alcoholic beverages before getting into the taxi. The reason for this is because if you have been drinking, then the taxi driver will not let you take the child in the car.
Children are very sensitive to alcohol and can become very sleepy or vomiting due to it. This is a safety precaution that is taken very seriously by all good taxi drivers.
Having no inhibitions can be dangerous for a child. A child can get hurt physically or emotionally due to this. Emotional damage can be caused by leaving them alone or taking them to places they do not belong.
The best way to avoid this is to not have any alcoholic beverages prior to getting into the taxi. This way you will be safe and sober when arriving at your destination.
Tell the driver that you have young children with you
Tell the driver the number of children that will be traveling with you and ask them if they have a child safety seat. If not, let them know that you have a child safety seat and where it is.
If they do not have a child safety seat, then ask them to pull over and wait until you have installed the safety seat. It is important to be careful when doing this as you do not want to hurt yourself or the child.
Tell the driver your destination and ask if there is anything they could do to make your trip more comfortable for you and the children. A nice gesture would be offering some treats or water for the children- an easy way to win their hearts!
When arriving at your destination, thank the driver and give them a good tip for being careful with your children.
Make sure that you tell the driver your destination
Once in the taxi, make sure you tell the driver your destination and that you have a child coming with you. If the child is old enough, let them sit in the front with the driver so that they can direct him or her to where they are going.
Make sure to have some money for the driver so that he or she can get something from the store when they arrive at your destination.
Having a child with you can be stressful, but if you prepare ahead of time, it will go smoothly. The most important thing is to get there on time!
If you are unable to get to the wedding on time, try staying at the venue after everyone leaves and take a stroll down the aisle together.
Check your route before getting into the taxi
Make sure that the taxi driver knows the destination that you have booked him for. Most taxis have a built-in GPS system, but it is always good to check that it is working properly.
Make sure that your child is safe and secure in their seat
It is important to be aware of your child’s movements and reactions to the movement of the vehicle. If they are comfortable and feel safe, then they are probably okay to ride alone.
Some children take longer to adjust to self-transport than others. Some children will never adapt to self-transport, and that is okay! We all grow at different rates, and this is no different.
Some signs that your child is not ready to ride solo are constant crying or yelling, lack of concentration or focus, or trying to get out of the vehicle. If this is the case, then you should not force them to ride solo until they are ready.
Do not allow your child to interfere with driving
Your child is learning how to walk and run, so let them practice. Have them walk around the car and across the car to get into the car. Have them sit in the car seat and try to buckle themselves in. Have them grab your hand as you walk around the car to open the door for them.
All of these things let your child have some freedom of movement while also letting them explore their surroundings.
By having your child practice these things before getting into a taxi, they will be more prepared for what they need to do when they get in one. This will reduce anxiety and frustration for both of you.
Other things you can do: Let your child sit in the front or back seat, depending on their age, and let them hold a safety belt loop or pull on it.
