One of the most stated reasons for children not wearing a seat belts is the child’s reluctance to do so. This can take the form of whining, undoing the seat belt or large physical style tantrums. Parents often relent especially if they are traveling a short distance. The fact is however, seat belts are necessary, without exception. A recent report stated that the majority of children injured in car accidents were not wearing seat belts, and those children suffered greater injuries than those properly restrained. So when tackling those resistant toddlers and preschoolers why not look to their dominate sense to aid with buckling up.
Auditory children can be coerced into the car (and thus, into their seat belts) by making the car their special singing studio. If they view the car as a special place where they can listen to their favorite songs, and sing along with Mom and Dad, they will be more eager to be there. Naturally, you will make the rule that there is no music on until the seat belt is fastened! With your auditory child, this can be a great time to learn ABC’s, practice spelling words or memorize multiplication tables. Normally, the auditory child will be distracted by the other noises about them, while the car can be less distracting. The car will also be a great place to chat about the day, and is an easy way to incorporate listening time into your schedule.
Visual children will prefer a seat that makes them look like a big girl or boy, so take them shopping with you when you purchase a car seat or booster. Keep a collection of picture books and magazines on hand, and consider a fold down tray that attaches to the back of the seat, or sits across the knees — very helpful for the child to draw and fill out activity books. For those parents lucky enough to have a DVD player in the car, this too can be a lifesaver, especially when they can only watch a particular show in the car. Again, be sure the rule is seat belt first, DVD after. If you allow your children to eat in the car, keep wipes on hand — visual children can become very upset at having to go out looking messy.
Tactile children are the wriggly ones. They hate to be constrained, so will put up a physical fight while you strap them in. Once in, they will figure out how to undo the seat belt, and you will find yourself driving along, only to realize they’re not wearing it! Since seat belts are such a lifesaver, it’s worth purchasing an additional clip that fastens over the buckle. It may make putting your child in their seat a little more difficult but it is worth the extra time to ensure they are strapped in. Have a rule that no seat belts — no moving. You’ll need to be strict about enforcing this — even if it means pulling over to the side of the road. Tactile children respond well to rules, especially non-negotiable rules. The trick is no exceptions to the rule: enforce it every time. Tactile children will also appreciate activity books and play things in the car. Keep a box of “car only” toys, fun things that they enjoy and will entertain them.
Taste and smell children will always respond to the ‘hurt’ concept. Explain that they might be hurt if there is an accident. This simple statement is often enough to persuade them to wear a seat belt. Letting them lead by example also works wonders: use a favorite teddy or doll, and a pretend car seat (even homemade, out of cardboard.) They will be happy to strap their teddy in, just like their mommy straps them in. Choosing a seat cover that has their favorite character — a friend in the car — can also help. Special car activities for your taste and smell child might include writing a letter to grandma, looking through photo albums or playing with their miniature collection of dolls or trucks.
Of course, the very best way to demonstrate the importance of seat belts is to wear one yourself — every day, every trip, even if it’s only to the end of the block. Your child is watching and learning, so set a good example. Make no exceptions, everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, it could be a matter of life or death.
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INFORMATION
For more information on National Seat Belt Enforcement Mobilization visit http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/ciot
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Priscilla Dunstan is a behavioral researcher and creator of the Dunstan Baby Language and author of "Child Sense" and "Calm the Crying." She currently works in New York as a behavioral consultant. Learn more about Dunstan at www.dunstanbabynewyork.com
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