Driving with children in the car brings a unique set of challenges. You need to keep them comfortable, entertained, and most importantly, safe. Here are some practical steps to help make your journeys safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Prepare the car and your child before setting off
Before you even start the engine, make sure both your car and your child are ready for the road. The correct child seat is crucial – it should match their age, height and weight. Always double-check that it’s fitted securely, with the harness properly adjusted before every journey. It’s your legal responsibility to ensure that children under 12 or 135cm tall are in the right seat (you can find full details at gov.uk).
Planning your route also helps reduce stress, particularly on longer trips. Knowing where rest stops are located can keep the journey smoother, and having essentials like snacks, water and entertainment for your child should help to keep the mood positive.
According to research by Nextbase, 49,304 dangerous driving clips were submitted to the police, reminding us all how important it is to stay vigilant when driving – even more so with children on board. Speed is a factor in many of these incidents. If you are caught exceeding the limit, you could receive an SP30 endorsement, which usually means penalty points, a fine, and in more serious cases, the risk of a driving ban. With children in the car, the consequences of a momentary lapse in judgement extend well beyond the legal ones.
Planning for longer journeys, breakdowns and unexpected events
On longer trips, planning for rest stops is key. This can help you avoid fatigue, but it also gives your children a chance to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. If they suffer from travel sickness, consider packing some supplies like plastic bags or wet wipes, and perhaps ginger-based snacks, which may help soothe nausea.
In the event of a breakdown, stay calm. If you have to stop on the side of the road, ensure your child is safe in the car and that you’re both visible to passing vehicles. Keep emergency items like a first aid kit and high-visibility vests handy.
Unexpected situations can always arise, but being prepared makes a difference. If you spot unsafe driving on the roads, you can now upload video footage of dangerous driving to the National Dash Cam Safety Portal – something that all police forces in England and Wales accept. With this system, more enforcement is in place to promote safer roads for everyone.
Reducing distractions and helping children stay calm
Children can be noisy and restless during car journeys, and that can lead to distractions that affect your ability to drive safely. Set clear rules before setting off: “No jumping around” or “Keep your seatbelt on” can help remind them of what’s expected.
Offer entertainment like books, games or music to keep them engaged, and don’t forget to pack snacks that can be eaten without causing a mess. Regular breaks are also important, not just for their comfort but for your focus too.
A calmer car is a safer car – reducing distractions helps you focus on the road and lowers the risk of accidents. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents, so creating a peaceful environment can genuinely help improve your safety.
Modelling safe driving habits and staying aware on the road
The best way to teach children about safety in the car is to lead by example. Always make sure everyone is wearing a seatbelt before you start driving. Stick to speed limits and avoid distractions like mobile phones while driving. Show your children that these safe habits aren’t optional – and vital for getting from one place to another.
The impact of unsafe driving is significant, with over 156,000 motoring offences submitted to the National Dash Cam Safety Portal in the last five years. The Nextbase research estimates that this has contributed to saving an estimated 142 years of police time.
This behaviour affects not only you and your passengers but everyone else on the road. Practising responsible driving is key to keeping everyone safe, and your kids will learn that the roads are a place for caution, not carelessness.
By taking these steps, you create a safer environment for your children, making your journeys calmer and more secure for everyone involved.
