by Angel Quinton

Created on: March 23, 2009

With the increased popularity of travel systems for babies the likelihood of new born babies being in a car seat for long periods are increased. While travel systems are extremely convenient and allows baby to be taken from buggy to car and vice versa without being woken, it is important to remember to remove the baby from the car seat at the earliest possible opportunity.

If you look at a baby in a travel system car seat you will see that they do not lie in them they are actually strapped in a sitting position. This may be acceptable for short periods but over longer periods of time it cannot be good for the development of a baby's soft bones and muscles. If you watch a newborn laying flat you will notice they are almost constantly moving their limbs; this is natures way of ensuring muscles are exercised and strengthened and if this movement is restricted over long periods of time it can be detrimental to the development of the baby.

So remember that a car seat is only designed for travelling at the earliest possible opportunity the child should be removed from the seat. If you are on a long journey take regular breaks and remove the baby from the seat. Allow them to lay flat, stretch and kick their legs. Give them a cuddle. Always have a baby seat mirror fitted so the baby can be seen if no one is sitting in the back seat with them. Always check regularly for over heating when the weather is hot. Always use sunscreens on side windows to keep sun off the baby, but remember this will not prevent over heating.

In cold weather do not put the baby in the car seat with a thick coat on. It has been found that if a thick coat will compress in the event of an accident resulting in the straps being too loose. The baby may then be ejected from the seat. The straps must be tight fitting. If it is cold cover the baby with a blanket, over the straps, rather than putting them in a thick coat.

Never keep a baby in a car seat when you return to your house, place them in a crib if still asleep. It has been reported that parents often use car seats in the house to restrict babies from harming themselves or getting dirty on the floor. This is an inappropriate use for a car seat and is not safe for the baby.

As well as the physical dangers that a car seat may present there are also psychological ones; Babies need physical contact and interaction with people. If they are constantly in a car seat they will not be gaining this invaluable time and closeness that gives them a sense of security. Constant lack of this closeness may result in emotional problems.

Consider these aspects when using a car seat for your baby. While they are an essential safety item in the car, a useful aid when used with a buggy, they should only be used for travel and baby must be removed regularly.

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