The holiday season is a time when families travel more, roads become busier, and children spend increased time outdoors. Whether you are heading away on a long trip or staying close to home for celebrations, road safety becomes especially important. Children are naturally curious and unpredictable, and festive excitement can make them less aware of potential dangers. With a thoughtful approach, parents and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries during this busy time of year.
Understanding Holiday Road Risks
Holidays create a unique set of challenges on the road. Traffic volumes rise, people are often rushing, and many drivers navigate unfamiliar areas. Children may also be out of their normal routines, spending more time walking, biking or playing around vehicles. These factors together increase the likelihood of accidents if precautions are not taken.
Safe Travel in the Car
Car safety is the foundation of holiday road protection. The correct child restraint, properly installed and suited to the child’s size and weight, is essential. Families can refer to the New Zealand Transport Agency for detailed guidance on choosing and fitting car seats.
Before departing, parents should check that harnesses fit snugly, straps lie flat, and the seat is securely anchored. Removing bulky jackets, which create dangerous gaps in harnesses, is another simple but effective step. Long trips may require additional planning such as regular rest stops, snacks, and activities to minimise distractions for the driver.
Pedestrian Safety During Festive Outings
With holiday markets, family gatherings and community events taking place, children often find themselves walking through busy car parks and crossing roads more frequently. Teaching and modelling predictable pedestrian behaviour is key. This includes:
- Stopping at the curb
- Looking both ways before stepping out
- Making eye contact with drivers when possible
- Using pedestrian crossings or traffic lights
Younger children should always be supervised closely near roads because they may not yet understand speed, distance, or driver behaviour. Reinforcing simple routines such as holding an adult’s hand, stopping and looking both ways before crossing, and staying within safe zones helps build safe habits that protect them in everyday traffic situations.
Bikes, Scooters and Holiday Gifts
Many children receive new bikes, scooters or skateboards as holiday presents. While these bring excitement and healthy outdoor activity, they also introduce new risks. Helmets should be worn every time and positioned correctly low on the forehead. Reflective gear or accessories help ensure visibility, especially during evening rides or trips to see festive lights.
Parents can also set rules about where riding is allowed. Quiet cul-de-sacs, shared pathways and parks are safer choices than busy residential streets. Practising basic signalling and understanding give-way rules can give older children a head start on safe riding habits.
Driveway and Car Park Safety
Driveways are among the most dangerous areas for children, particularly when visitors come and go frequently. To minimise risk, adults can:
- Always check behind and around the vehicle before reversing
- Know exactly where all children are before moving a car
- Encourage children to play well away from driveways
- Supervise closely when vehicles are arriving or leaving
Car parks can be equally hazardous during holiday shopping or events. Keeping children close, holding hands and avoiding walking in traffic lanes helps prevent accidents.
Helping Children Build Lifelong Safe Habits
Safety is most effective when it becomes a routine. Children learn best through repetition, consistency and the behaviour modelled by adults. Taking a few extra minutes to reinforce safe practices can make a long-term difference. Explaining why rules exist, rather than simply enforcing them, also helps children approach road environments more thoughtfully.
Enjoying a Safe and Happy Holiday Season
The holidays should be a time of relaxation, fun, and family connection. By planning ahead and following some simple holiday safety tips, parents and caregivers can help children enjoy all the excitement of the season while staying safe. Small actions, taken consistently, make a meaningful difference in preventing injuries and ensuring that celebrations remain memorable for the right reasons.
