Avoid distractions by your kids while driving. As any parent knows, driving with children in the car can be full of distractions. Whether they’re asking questions, reaching for something, or just causing a bit of noise, it can be hard to keep your focus on the road. However, safety should always come first, and it’s essential to find ways to avoid distractions. Peggie Mars, Wheel Well shares practical tips for staying focused on the road, ensuring both you and your kids are safe while travelling.
Recent studies have shown that children are four times more distractive than adult passengers and infants even more so.
The most worrying discovery is that driving with an infant is 12 times as distracting as driving while using your cellphone.
An Australian University, Monash, monitored 12 families over three weeks with a discreetly fitted monitoring device. The device tracked how many times and for how long eyes were taken off the road for more than two seconds and monitored distracted behaviour whilst driving. The families had an average of two children between the ages of one and eight, and 92 family trips were recorded and studied.
Distractive actions were turning to look at the child or looking into the rear-view mirror at the kids (76.4%), engaging in conversations with the kids (16%), assisting the child (7%) or playing with the child (1%)
Of the 92 trips studied, 90 shows children engaging in distractive behaviour resulting in the drivers taking the attention away from driving on average for three minutes and 22 seconds, a staggering 25% of the average driving distance.
It is impossible not to pay attention to your children while you are driving.
Here are 9 ways to avoid being distracted by your kids while driving
- Children in car seats are less likely to distract you and are less likely to misbehave
- Talk to your kids once they are old enough to understand that driving can be dangerous and your attention needs to be on the road.
- Tired and hungry kids misbehave more often. Anticipate those situations and keep healthy snacks in the car for them and put their car seats in a reclined position before you drive off.
- If your child drops something during the ride, resist the urge to pick it up for them. They can have the item once you can safely retrieve it or at the end of the ride.
- Pull over where it is safe if the kids are having a tantrum or a fight on the back seat. It is very difficult to discipline the kids and keep your attention on the road.
- Sometimes you just have to ignore them. You also need time to gather yourself before you respond to the kids when it is safe to do so.
- It is quite alright to tell the kids that you are driving in difficult traffic and that your attention needs to be on the road. Thank them later for their good behaviour whilst you were negotiating the traffic. They will love it!
- Play games like I-Spy, or discuss road signs you encounter. It is also a good idea to have children audiobooks, music or sing-alongs at hand.
- Another idea is to have a small packet of healthy treats like biltong at hand. If the kids misbehave, you get some biltong from the packet. They can have what is left over, if any, after the drive. Let them know the rules of this game beforehand.
ALSO READ: Car seats: installation guide, safety tips & the law explained
Always reduce your speed when you are driving with your children. You will have more control over the vehicle and more time to react to incidents ahead. Older kids can help you scan the road ahead for traffic disturbances. Make them “responsible co-drivers”. Valuable lessons learnt will pay off one day when they are driving themselves.
If you have an old car seat gathering dust somewhere, please consider donating it to Wheel Well. Their Car Seats for Kids campaign needs your old seat to clean and check for safety before they are made available to parents who cannot afford these vital items new.
Sources:
https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/children-more-distracting-than-mobile-phones
https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/parenting/parenting-articles/distracted-driving/
https://aaafoundation.org/
BabyYumYum FAQs: How to Avoid Distractions from Your Kids While Driving
Why is it important to reduce distractions while driving with kids?
Driving while distracted significantly increases the risk of accidents. Children can be unpredictable and even brief moments of distraction can lead to dangerous or fatal outcomes.
What are the most common distractions caused by kids in the car?
Typical distractions include:
- Arguing or shouting
- Dropping toys or snacks
- Demanding attention or help
- Crying or boredom
- Turning around to check on them
These can take your eyes, hands or focus off the road.
How can I prepare my children before the journey?
Set clear expectations before setting off. Let your children know you won’t be able to talk or help once you start driving. Encourage calm behaviour and explain why safety comes first.
What can I do to keep kids entertained and quiet in the car?
Bring along:
- Books, music, or audiobooks
- Snack boxes
- Car-safe toys
- Tablets with headphones (used safely and securely)
Keeping them engaged and occupied helps reduce fussiness.
Is it safe to give children food or drinks while driving?
It can be, but only if it’s simple and mess-free. Avoid foods that could cause choking or require supervision. Pack spill-proof water bottles and easy-to-hold snacks.
What if my child needs help while I’m driving?
Unless it’s an emergency, do not turn around or take your hands off the wheel. If the issue requires your attention, pull over safely before assisting.
Can I check on my baby while driving?
Use a baby mirror attached to the back seat to check on your baby without turning around. If your baby is crying but safe, it’s best to continue driving calmly or stop when it’s safe.
Should I use a hands-free phone while driving?
Even hands-free calls can be mentally distracting. Try to avoid phone calls while driving, especially when kids are in the car. Focus fully on the road and your passengers.
How do I handle sibling fights while driving?
Set up boundaries beforehand and separate children if needed using seat spacing or visual barriers. Reinforce that arguments will lead to stopping the car until calm is restored.
What’s the safest way to secure children in the car?
Always use the correct car seat or booster seat for your child’s age and weight. Make sure seats are properly installed and that your child is buckled in securely before driving. Also check out: Car seats save lives.
How can I stay calm during stressful trips?
Play calming music, take deep breaths at red lights, and plan your route in advance. Leave extra time for stops, and remind yourself that a calm driver is a safer driver.
When should I stop driving if the children are too disruptive?
If your children’s behaviour is making it hard to concentrate, pull over in a safe place, take a break and reset. It’s better to arrive late than risk an accident.
Disclaimer: This information is for general safety guidance and does not replace official driving regulations or legal advice. Always follow South African road laws and prioritise the safety of all passengers.
Battery and car maintenance doesn’t have to be hard. Here are 3 tips for women to keep their car in great condition and avoid costly …
