5 Tantrum-Proof Tricks to Getting a Toddler Into a Carseat
Oh, sure, he looks happy now.
You can’t really blame a toddler for not going quietly into a car seat. After all, they’re not babies anymore. Sheesh.
But car-seat safety is critical, of course. So even when they kick and scream, toddlers still need to be properly strapped into their car seats. It would just be nice, though, if they didn’t kick and scream on the way in.
Which is why we have these 5 foolproof ways to get your toddler to go quietly into the car seat (you’re welcome):
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Cookies
Or chips. Or gummies. Or pretty much anything you don't normally let them eat.
Give it to them when you want to strap them into the car seat.
It might not be the healthiest choice, but sometimes it's the only choice. Especially it getting into the car to get somewhere is not a choice, but a necessity. -
Another set of keys
Not the ones you need to start the car, silly.
Another set.
Preferably a fake set or one that won't lock you out of the house forever and ever.
Kids love keys. Keys can prevent tantrums. What are you waiting for? -
Your iPod
That little sucker doesn't just hold music, it hold movies and TV shows, too.
Like Barney and Mickey Mouse.
Did we mention Barney can live in that little thing? -
Toys
Not just any toys.
Special-occasion toys work best. Ones that aren't breakable but are replaceable.
Bonus: If they're toys that drive you crazy inside the house, they'll be even better in the back seat when you don't have to, say, worry about stepping on them and screaming out in agonizing pain. -
The quiet game
Big kids can't be fooled: The quiet game is no game at all.
Little kids? They probably haven't had much experience with the quiet game. All they need to know is that it's a game, and games are fun.
Ready . . . set . . . shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
Photo credits: iStock
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Cute list! Not sure if I’d let ‘em eat junk food just to get ‘em into the car, but hey! Maybe if I was desperate? Love the other tips anyway. Thanks!
My son would totally go for the special-occasion toys. And he’s such a pain when it comes to getting in the car seat! Definitely trying this!
Wish my kid would fall for the quiet game. He’s too smart! Haha! Any other game ideas?
How about I Spy? Spy certain items out the car window (if he or she is old enough to play this game and actually get it!) and have them pick them out. For example, “I spy a red mini van, I spy a blue mailbox, etc.”
Love the I Spy idea! Thanks, Helen!!
Great list! We do a toy in one hand to keep quiet. I love the I Spy game!
Ever since she was little, we’ve kept a small toy in the car to keep her busy while we drive. She’s never put up a fuss about getting strapped in, because she knows what to expect. And, since it’s been the habit from the get-go, she even knows that it stays in the car when we get out, so we don’t have that fight each time, either!