Any parent can tell you that toddlers have minds of their own. They are embarking on a new level of development that often includes defiance and crankiness. 
While the terrible twos can be challenging for parents, keeping their children safe remains a priority. In the case of a squirmy toddler who has other plans than sitting in a car seat, it can be a pain to try and wrangle them into one.
When you are running late or rain is pouring down, the last thing you need is a battle royale over getting your child safely harnessed into their car seat. If the battle has become a daily routine, you may seek help to make the process easier.
Getting your restless toddler into their Diono car seat doesn’t need to be exhausting. In order to appease your child and get them settled in their seat quickly and without fuss, there are a few steps you can take. Let’s look at a few tips to help you get your fussy toddler strapped into their car seat and ready for a road trip.
Provide Options
A toddler can be easily stymied if you provide them with a variety of options when it comes to behavior. For example, when you are ready to get in the car, provide them with the option to try it themselves, or have you help them. In many cases, the developing streak of independence common at this age will win over, and they will voluntarily get into their seat. It’s important to provide choices that result in the same outcome. Getting them into the seat is the main goal of this process.
Make It Fun
The key to eliminating the inevitable tantrum when it’s time to get in the car is to make it fun. As long as the children anticipate a reward for good behavior, they will be more likely to follow the instruction. You may offer them a ride-along snack if they behave or the chance to watch their favorite show on the car monitor. You could also create a few fun car games you can play if they follow your instruction and get into their car seat without drama.
Let Them Help
It is common for small children to want to help and get involved in the activities going on around them. Let them help in the car seat routine if you have an uncooperative toddler. Let them climb into their seat rather than being picked up. Allow them to help with the fastening of the harness. Let them know how helpful they are and that you are impressed by their skills. Your child will feel accomplished and more likely to enjoy the process rather than fight it.
Wrangling a squirmy child into a car seat could be considered an Olympic event. If you struggle each time you set out in the car, try some tips and tricks to help get your child safely harnessed in their seat and ready to hit the road.
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