Britax Duo Plus Isofix

All pregnant women are required to wear seat belts while in the front or rear seats of a vehicle. Fit the strap as comfortable as possible. This will usually be by crossed the breast bone, between the breasts with the lap belt crossing the thighs. That is, take the strap over the pelvis rather than the bump and tighten as much as possible.

In normal circumstances, mothers-to-be must wear a seat belt. However, in some medical circumstances it is possible you may be exempt. It is up to your Doctor to authorise exemption. Click here for information on exemptions.

Get the “Buckle Up For Baby And You” leaflet here.

The Law Regarding Children In Cars

Basically, all children under 135cm tall or under the age of 12 in front or rear seats must wear the correct child restraint for their weight with a few exceptions. This also applies to overseas visitors and their cars while travelling in this country. If this is a hire car, then seats should be booked in advance with the rental company.

Exceptions are limited and differ slightly depending on whether the child is over or under three years of age.

1. In a licensed hire car or taxi if the correct restraint is unavailable they may only travel in the rear seat; if over three they should wear the adult belt and if under three, they can be unrestrained as the adult belt would work at all.

2. In a genuine emergency, and over a short distance, a child over three years may travel in the rear using an adult seat belt. This does NOT apply to children under three, regular trips or those planned in advance.

3. When there is only room to fit two child restraints on the rear seat, and, if the front seat is already occupied, a child over three may use an adult belt (lap only or full). If the front seat is empty, they must use this and the correct child restraint for their age.

4. If the vehicle has no rear seat belts as is common with older vehicles, a child over three may travel unrestrained.

Get the “Seat Belts And Child Restraints” leaflet here as it also provides current UK laws on child seat belts and who is responsible for ensuring a child is secured in a vehicle.

When you travel with kids there are certain items you should remember to take with you to make your journey easier by keeping the kids happier. You must not be put off by what you may perceive as a tortuous event with restless and noisy, bored children.

Just get yourself well prepared and you’ll have a good trip. Unlike traveling with adults, children just need a bit forethought so you can respond quickly to their needs. Planning is absolutely key, so try these tips and you shouldn’t have unanticipated problems.

Safety should be very important and a quick look around your own home will give you an idea of what you ought to take without loading the kitchen sink! If you are vacationing in strange surroundings, you could find a small rubberized doorstop useful. They can provide a a bit more security if you’re in a hotel as you can wedge the door from inside to stop them opening the door quickly and running out. A little nightlight is another good option in a strange place as this can help them locate the bathroom in the night.

The medical items you need to consider are Band-Aids, tissues, sun screen, antiseptic hand gel, wet wipes, pain killers (that are suitable for children and adults) and emergency telephone numbers. Naturally, if your little one has a special condition you will be aware what to add to the list.

Travel with kids on long journeys can be quite a headache when children become bored. I’m sure you’ve been asked, “how much further” or “how much longer” on many occasions! Remember to break your journey at least every few hours to allow the driver a rest and also the children time to stretch their legs etc. Always have something to eat and lots of drinks with you in the event you get caught in traffic jams.

Bring crayons, puzzle books, highlighter pens, pieces of paper, cards and some plastic bags. Having closable bags are helpful to put food, damp clothes and any bits and bobs the children may acquire such as pebbles or seashells off the beach. Handheld electronic games or portable DVD players may also be useful and if you already have them, your children probably will insist in any case. You might find an audio head set for this will come in handy for you!

Other items that you ought to consider include sun glasses and hats, umbrellas, a lightweight weight wind breaker or beach tent and your camera of course. Finally, make sure you carry your passport and travel papers where you know you will find them the evening before you go. This helps prevent last minute panics. Pinning notes on your front door to remind you may be helpful for a double check. Remember to take photographs of your children with you in case they go missing.

All the above can help you enjoy your trip more and prevent the dread of the journey when you travel with kids. Simply being well prepared and trying to keep them fed, watered and occupied is vital, so make sure you give this plenty of thought beforehand.

Before you go on any long car journey, make sure your child car seats are checked over. If you need a new one, the Britax Isofix car seats have got a excellent reputation. If you have babies and toddlers the Britax B-Smart travel system is an excellent choice.