As a parent, your child’s time in the car is an opportunity to connect and engage with them. Whether you’re driving to school or running errands, there are ways to make the car environment more conducive to your child’s development.

First, plan for the time it takes for your child to settle into their car seat. Let them remove their coat if it’s bulky to prevent discomfort during the ride. Make the process of getting into the car seat paced and patient so that your child can do as much of it independently as possible.

Second, keep the car manageable by offering your child two or three car-friendly toys that won’t slip between cracks or under seats. When toys aren’t in use, teach your child to put them away in a backseat organizer. This helps them build a habit of caring for their environment.

Third, take advantage of the equipment available to you. Instead of screens, offer audiobooks with accompanying real books to read along with while you’re listening. You can even record your child’s favorite books yourself and include a cue when it’s time to turn the page. Encourage your child to pay attention to the sounds and sights unique to your car experience.

Fourth, use the time in the car to talk and connect with your child. Ask open-ended questions and notice things you’re passing together. Turn off the radio and put away your phone to pay attention to your child. This is a great time to foster a deeper connection with them.

Finally, whenever possible, get out of the car and walk. Walking together gives children the chance to engage with their community, to notice the changes happening around them, and to lay down roots in their community. Walking also helps improve spatial reasoning and logic skills.

At Imani Montessori we encourage you to make the most of the time you have with your child. By making the car environment more conducive to their development, you’re taking a small step toward a deeper connection with them.