Tips for Driving With Kids

Filling up with petrol When you're paying for petrol, it's safer to take your baby in with you rather than leave them in the car. But let's face it, sometimes your baby may be asleep and you don't want to wake them or you're just too tired to undo the belts and redo them. Here are a couple of tips. Either fill up when you don't have your baby with you or find a convenient service station where you can pay at the pump!

Shopping centre parking Many large shopping centres have allocated parking for people with prams close to the entrance. Look for the signs in your centres.  

Safety first When packing the shopping into the car, always secure your baby in car first, then worry about your shopping. Give yourself plenty of time to get from point A to point B. Rushing with babies on board is neither safe nor good for the nerves!  

Tip for putting pram in station wagon/4WD Prams can be heavy, especially double ones. Here's a tip a girlfriend showed me. Tilt pram onto back wheels and put front wheel onto boot floor. Lift up the back, wheel in, swivel around and collapse when completely in boot.

Flat tyres, flat battery or keys locked in Car Any of these are a nuisance at the best of times, but a complete nightmare when you have kids. Your state motoring organisations such as NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RACT, and Royal Automobile Club of WA can help you with all of these, so it's worthwhile joining.

Protection from the sun The Australian sun can be really harsh all rear round. Here are a few options to protect your baby.

1. Window socks. Like a sock that slips over the window made to fit most car models. They cost about $50 each, fits in seconds, can open and close window for ventilation without falling off.

2. Window shades. Suction cup on inside of widow; they come in a variety of styles and sizes and are a cheaper option but not as effective.

3. Car Seat Sunshade. Hooks over car seat, but allows baby to still see.

Rearview mirror Allows you to see baby (when in rear facing position) and baby to see you! Range in price from $9.95 to $29.95. This feature is standard in a Kia Carnival.