Trends

Parenting

Babies

Car Seat Safety
Car seat safety is most important when it comes to protecting your child during travel. Be sure to read over the installation manual and have a car seat installation expert do it if necessary. Used car seats are not recommended. For more information, visit kidshealth.org.

Other must-have devices for the mom on the go:

• Mobile mirror – A necessity for the backseat, rear-facing infant. Be sure to get one that attaches to the backseat headrest. Avoid the smaller ones that suction to the back windshield, they are too small and fall off easily.
• Sunshades – These roll-down devices attach to the side window and avoid risk of sunburns or irritation.
• Storage space for toys, etc. – Many accidents are the result of internal distractions. Toys, cups and other accessories should be put away while traveling.
• Infant head and body support – Most infant car seats come with a head cushion but it is worth it to get a separate accessory that gives the infant a snugger ride.
• It may also be a good idea to give your infant more head support with another accessory that attaches to the car seat harness straps. They serve as mini pillows and are usually referred to as “neck wings.” Be sure to get the ones that attach to the straps and preferably attach to each other. There are some available that attach separately and they tend to slide down and allow the infant’s neck to slant sideways.

Since they do not stay babies forever, it is most likely that teen driving will dominate the home at one point or another. A new technology that will explode in our lifetime is the tracking navigation system. Constructed like a GPS navigation system, it allows parents to set speed limits and track the whereabouts of their teen drivers right from a home computer. Ranging from $450-$700, fees may include installation and monthly maintenance fees. Another option is the GPS enabled Nextel cell phone for about $20/month. It offers the same capabilities as the navigation systems and allows web monitoring from any PC. These devices can also be used for elderly drivers who require a closer watch. A less expensive route to explore the caution areas of a teen driver is courtesy of teensurance.com. TeenDash for Safety gives parents a written survey for their teens to take, with special focus on identifying attitudes like anger, aggression and rule breaking. Parents have access to a report that will identify their child’s personality, and what driving habits may stem as a result. Think “personality test for the adolescent.”