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Carefree Car Ownership

Teaching children the fundamentals of car safety

For young parents, teaching your little ones how to behave properly and safely around cars is an important step in their life education. Children's minds are still developing an understanding of the world around them, so informing them early on of the risks and dangers can help instill good habits for the rest of their lives. Here are some car safety tips and car travel tips every child should know.

Stop, look and listen
Not all car safety occurs while inside the vehicle. While playing in the yard or crossing the street to meet friends, children should always be aware of the old rule to stop, look and listen. Having children repeat these steps whenever they are near the street will prevent them from stepping into oncoming traffic, according to Education.com.

Car seats
SafeKids.org reports that properly used car seats can reduce the risk of death in a car accident by 71 percent. Children should continue using car seats or booster seats until they are of an age, height and weight that allow them to comfortably wear a regular seatbelt. Even after graduating from the car seat, parents should limit children to the backseat until about age 12 or 13.

Good behavior
Misbehaving children can be a major distraction for parents behind the wheel. Inform children that loud noise or constant movement makes everyone less safe while riding in the car. Rewards for good behavior can help reinforce this concept.

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