Baby hates the car, uuugggg!!!

[KDsmommy]

I know this is probaby a phase, but it's driving me crazy! My 6 month old is in a Snugride 30 and cries every time we go anywhere in the car. I suspect it has nothing to do with the car seat and everything to do with just wanting out, but if anyone can give me some real-life suggestions I would be very grateful. She's tiny at only 12.5 lbs and 25 inches so she'll fit in that seat for a long time to come. I do wonder if she'd be happier in a convertible, but with 3 older kids I really value the convenience of the infant seat for quick trips and drop offs/pick ups. Any suggestions for helping her to be happier in her seat?!

 

[featherhead]

Can you install the seat more upright?

 

[KDsmommy]

Can you install the seat more upright?

Good idea, yes I can try that. The base has the adjuster foot and it's currently in the most reclined position. Now that she can almost sit unsupported, I can definitely make the seat more upright.

 

[1mommy]

Hmm have you tried a soft toy? My oldest went through a phase like that at the same age and I just suffered through it because I didn't know any better. Farting noises worked at first but then lost their magic. Maybe have one of the older kids try to play with her to distract her?

 

[BananaBoat]

My youngest daughter was like that and to a certain extent still hates the car. Never car sick or anything, just not a good car traveler and wants out after about 20 mins. We don't take road trips. Sometimes she'll fall asleep which is awesome, but more often than not she just complains

As an infant, we tried toys, a soft flexible velcro mirror, Sleep Sheep (travel), music and white noise played over the speakers. Everything worked a little, but nothing was a silver bullet. If she was really annoyed nothing worked. She'll be 4 years old in July which is the earliest I will consider front-facing her. We'll see if she wants to and if it changes things. I suspect it won't. It's just her personality to not want to be held captive - in the car or anywhere else!

I don't say all this to be a Debbie Downer, but just to say that your daughter might just not be a car kid. By all means try whatever suggestions come your way! I hope something works better than it did for me. And, if it doesn't it's not because you're not doing the right thing or there's something wrong with the car seat. It might just be your daughter's personality.

 

[rosey2007]

I feel for you. My oldest son used to cry in his infant seat as well. He is 8 now and thank goodness grew out if it.