The school run isn’t always the calmest of experiences but having your kids properly secured in the back will take at least one stress off your mind. This week’s tips give advice on driving with children, from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards Richard Gladman.

• Know the law on car seats. All children under 12 must be in an appropriate child seat.Check out the Good Egg guide http://www.goodeggcarsafety.com/ for the latest information. Choose a recognised retailer and always try a few seats in the car before you buy

   

• Never be tempted to buy a second-hand car seat, as it may have been involved in an accident or the essential fitting instructions may be missing.The law on booster seats has recently changed, so the advice now is not to use a booster cushion but always choose a booster seat with a back

   

• Take care where you park.Getting in and out can be as dangerous as the journey and toddlers can run quickly if they are near the road

   

• Plan out your journey, including where to stop for a comfort break, remember children often need a break before you will. Make it an adventure, maybe even leave the motorway for a treat? Entertaining the children with games can be educational and often amusing

   

• Check the weather forecast. Children that are too hot or too cold get grumpy very quickly. There is nothing worse than an irritable and hot toddler throwing a tantrum because they have been wrapped up in thermals

           

• Pack for success and disaster. You never know what ‘lions and tigers’ you may face on your long journey so we recommend packing items such as spare clothing, food and drinks

Richard said: “Sometimes even the shortest journey with young children can seem like a logistical nightmare but it doesn’t have to be this way.  Practice, planning and preparation will go a long way to making sure your trip is a to baby heaven and not a to baby hell.”