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I'm back as a new parent!

I unfortunately haven't been able to write lately but, luckily, it was for a very good reason. I am very happy to say that just over two months ago, we were blessed with a healthy little boy and I became a very proud father. Things are finally starting to settle down a bit and get into a routine (except for his sleeping schedule but, luckily, the wife is taking care of that) so I will have more time to start writing again. Now, to make this post as car related as possible, I'll conclude this with a few tips for new or expecting parents:

1 - Make sure you put the baby seat in the middle position. Many manuals and forums recommend the middle position but, aside from safety reasons in case of a crash, putting the seat on the left or right sides is less practical because it renders the door on that side basically useless for anything besides getting the baby in and out. Putting it in the middle will also make it easier to get the baby out from either side of the vehicle which is important to make sure that, regardless of where and how you park, you can always take the baby out from the safer side - away from traffic.


2 - Before you take the baby out or in, check if the door can open all the way without hitting any vehicles parked next to you. You will need plenty of space to get the baby in and check that the seat is locked properly in the seat base as well as get the baby out.


3 - Make sure the road has your full attention for your own and your child's safety. According to CAA (Canadian Automobile Association), infants are eight times more distracting than adults as passengers. If your baby needs attention, find the nearest safe place to pull over.


4 - If your baby gets frustrated in the car too quickly, try putting music or the radio on if you don't already do that. Having music or the radio on keeps our son calmer on longer drives. Make sure not to make it loud, though, as it could hurt their ears.



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