From their first pram to their first car

Traveling around with children can be awkward on public transport with bulky prams and countless bags, or full of risk for pedestrians, cyclists or motorists.

When driving, make sure that your car is registered, maintained and insured. Use the correct restraints for your child’s age and size, making sure they are clean, working and appropriately adjusted. Once your child is out of booster seats and sitting in the car seat, always use a seatbelt and teach your child not to undo their belt until the car has come to a complete stop and engine turned off.

Secure all bags and other items in the car in so if the car suddenly stops items do not fly around. Never leave your child alone in a car, it is illegal and dangerous. As well as overheating, children can disengage a handbrake, start the engine if keys are left in and play with lighters. Be aware of temperature to avoid chill or heat stress and use window shades or tinting to protect from direct sunlight.

Traveling with prams can be such a joy. Battling crowds, toddler squirming and precariously leaning over trying to get out, manoeuvring shopping bags, food and drinks and trying not to fall into pot holes and gaps at train stations. Ensure all straps are fastened securely, hold firmly onto the handle and apply brakes when you stop. Keep away from the edge of footpaths and stay behind the yellow line at train stations. At shopping centres, park if possible in “parents with prams” designated parking and use lifts rather than escalators. Don’t hang heavy bags off the handles which may tip the pram.

When walking, hold hands and cross at traffic lights and pedestrian crossings wherever possible. Even then, check for oncoming and turning traffic as sometimes drivers don’t check! Before you know it, your children will be behind the wheel.

Discuss road rules with your children and develop their safety sense early for all modes of travel.

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