How to keep a child from unbuckling seat belts

Content

Part 1 of 2: Before getting into the car
Part 2 of 2: When you're in the car

Getting kids in the car and fastening their seat belts can be a challenge in itself, and once toddlers figure out how to unfasten their own seat belts, there's one more thing to watch out for. It doesn't help that the button used to unfasten the straps is usually bright red; big red buttons and kids don't mix well.

To combat this, children need to be aware of the importance of seat belts, and adults need to know whether children are always buckled in their seats. Of course, this is much easier said than done, but using the right kind of encouragement will eventually result in kids growing up with good harness habits that keep them safe as teenagers and adults alike.

Part 1 of 2: Before getting into the car

Step 1: Make sure kids know about seat belts. Your job is to make sure they know that the seat belts keep them safe and in place in the event of an accident.

Don't intimidate them into using seat belts, making it seem like car accidents are very common as this can cause problems in the future, but gently communicate the purpose and importance of a seat belt.

Step 2: Make sure children know how to fasten and unfasten seat belts.. In most cases, this makes children feel more responsible and more in control when they are strapped in.

If children are not allowed to unfasten themselves, they may begin to unfasten themselves as a game or simply to get the attention of a parent or guardian.

They'll learn how to use a seatbelt pretty quickly just by watching you, so teaching them how to put on and unfasten a seatbelt doesn't change much other than how they feel about car safety.

Step 3: Lead by Example and Show the Importance of a Seat Belt. Always fasten your seat belt when getting into a car.

Children are very observant and will notice this behavior. Make sure that all adult passengers wear their seat belts at all times while the vehicle is in motion, as consistency is the key to forming good habits.

Part 2 of 2: When you're in the car

Step 1: Use Positive Reinforcement. This will make putting on and unbuckling the seat belt an important part of your child's routine.

Consistency is key here, which is simple if you yourself are used to practicing good seat belt etiquette. Before you set off, ask everyone in the car if they are wearing seat belts. This includes adult passengers in the vehicle.

Once your child is comfortable with this routine, you can ask them to ask everyone in the car if they are wearing their seat belts before heading out.

Step 2: Tell your child when to unfasten the seat belt. If your child unfastens his seat belt too soon, ask him to re-fasten his seat belt before you tell him it is safe to unfasten him.

You can then exit the vehicle; it helps make it a habit. Use positive reinforcement consistently when your child is waiting for your signal to unfasten their seat belt and get out of the car.

Step 3: Be as observant as possible. If your child regularly unfastens his seat belt while driving, the normal level of supervision may not catch him.

Whenever the car comes to a stop, look in the rearview mirror to make sure the child is securely held in their seat. If the passenger can turn around and check instead, that's optimal.

By being vigilant with your child and following your own behavior, you can help keep them safe every time you go for a walk. Making car safety a fun game also teaches children to be responsible and shows that they are trusted to be safe in the car and not forced to stay seated against their will. These good habits will haunt your child through adolescence and into adulthood, so patience and consistency go a long way. If you notice that your seat is shaking, ask one of AvtoTachki certified technicians to inspect it.