Baby hates riding in a car seat, What to do? We have all heard the advice to take your baby on a car trip if they are having trouble falling asleep. Being out for a walk calms your baby. But what if it has the opposite effect, and her son hates car rides?
If your baby is happy before going for a walk, the first step is to determine what bothers him.
If your seat is installed in the vehicle, remove it and test it indoors. Please dress your child in the same clothes they normally wear to leave the house. If it’s cold outside and your baby will be wearing a coat, mittens, and shoes, put them on first. Make sure your child is awake but calm. Put your baby in the seat and tighten the harness as you normally would. Keep your child sitting for a few minutes.
Baby hates riding in a car seat, What to do?
How did it turn out? If your child was fine, you could rule out the car seat as the problem.
If your baby is happy in the car, but not in the car, here are some things to look for and change:
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As we know, sometimes radio or road noise is unpleasant. And some road noises and music may be unpleasant for your little one to listen to, or your car may be too quiet. Try playing a CD with nursery rhymes like Baby Einstein on your stereo. Turn up the volume high – louder than your normal voice.
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The temperature inside the car is hotter or colder than in the house. You should try to run the car for many minutes to let the heater or cooling get to the right temperature. Make certain to park outside the garage to avoid exhaust fumes.
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Nothing to see and entertain. If there are two adults in the car, sit next to the baby. She interacts by talking, singing, or using toys. If only you and your baby are in the car, try attaching a toy or travel mirror to the headrest facing your child.
What about children who are upset in a car seat? In this case, there are several things to consider and to try.
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Harness straps will make people feel uncomfortable. Some car seat harnesses have padding, but some seats do not. If the problem starts when the buckles are in place, and the harness is properly adjusted, try another seat.
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Come to a store with car seats on display and try buckling your child up in a different model. If you still have a screaming kid, it can be embarrassing, but it’s worth a try!
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The diaper is too tight. A diaper that fits comfortably while lying down may be too tight on your thighs or hips when your baby’s legs are bent in a reclined car seat. Try to loosen the diaper a bit before fastening it to your baby.
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The car seat angle is awkward. First, make sure the car seat is installed at the manufacturer’s recommended angle. If you use an infant seat, it may be worth upgrading to a convertible car seat earlier. Try one at a store or borrow a seat from friends for a short trip. Convertible car seats tilt less than infant seats and may be more comfortable for your child.
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The baby has acid reflux. If your child is inconsolable in a reclined position, acid reflux may cause discomfort. Consult your paediatrician for advice.
As a parent, having a baby unhappy with car rides can be annoying and distracting while driving. I do not recommend waiting for your child to grow out of being upset in the car without trying anything different, thinking it is just a phase. The solution may be simple, and it could make car rides more enjoyable for everyone!
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