Buckle babies up from birth
Tips for keeping children entertained in car seats
Cindy Lou VanDevender

Start early - bring your baby home from the hospital in a child safety seat and never put your baby in a vehicle without one. Children who always ride in a safety seat will not question the practice and will always ride safely.

Be consistent - there are no excuses, always buckle your child. Never confuse your child by not using the child safety seat. Allowing your child to get out of the safety seat when he/she cries or is fussy only teaches the child to control you.

Use words - as your i n f a n t becomes a toddler and starts using l a n g u a g e , explain in simple words that your family rule is that everyone buckles up.

M o d e l good behavior - children copy parents all the time. By buckling up every time you get in the car, you set the example you want them to follow.

Boredom monster - the boredom monster may strike at any time. To keep your child busy, have a bag of soft travel toys, books, and activities used only in the car.

Be firm - nearly every child will try at some point to get out of the safety seat. Don't panic! Stop the car at a safe location. Talk to your child in a firm, serious voice and then re-buckle the child safety seat.

Clue in grandparents - safety seat products have changed, laws have changed, and knowledge has changed. Grandparents need to know the importance of using safety seats, have rules for grandchildren in their vehicles, and know how to properly install and use child safety seats.

This information was taken from the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, Rural Passenger Safety Education Program. If you would like any more information please, contact Cindy VanDevender, County Extension Agent - Family and Consumer Sciences at the Jasper County Extension Office, 409-994-3721.

Cindy Lou VanDevender is the County extension agent for family and consumer sciences for Jasper County.