Updated: August 15, 2016
Originally Published: July 14, 2015
We’ve all seen those heartbreaking headlines: “Infant left in car, tragically dies.” The news hits like a punch to the gut, stirring feelings of disbelief and outrage.
“What kind of parent could forget their child in a vehicle?” we wonder, our emotions bubbling over.
The truth is, any parent can find themselves in that situation. I nearly did.
As a mother of two young children, I was navigating the chaotic early days of motherhood once again. My daughter was only a year and a half old, and my son was just ten days old.
For those who have experienced it, the first month with a newborn is like tumbling down the rabbit hole—where day and night blur, and every moment feels overwhelming. A wise friend once advised me, “Don’t take it day by day; take it minute by minute.”
My son insisted on being held constantly. He would only sleep if I stood, bouncing him in my arms while singing a slightly edited lullaby. Meanwhile, my daughter, who had just transitioned to having a sibling, chose that moment to fully embrace the “Terrible Twos,” demanding my attention in between her brother’s brief naps.
Fatigue enveloped me as I ran on adrenaline, hormones, and copious amounts of espresso.
One day, after a quick trip to the coffee shop, I found myself rushing home. I needed to use the restroom, my daughter was fussing about not having enough blueberry muffin, my phone was ringing, and the radio was blaring. In that whirlwind, I completely forgot about my sleeping son in his rear-facing car seat.
It was astonishing how easy it was to overlook the precious baby nestled in the back. If it hadn’t been for the discomfort of my milk-filled breasts and the unmistakable urge to nurse, I might not have remembered him at all.
As I lifted my son into my arms, I silently repeated to myself, “There but for the Grace of God go I.” In that moment of realization, I felt immense gratitude.
I am not a flawless parent, but I genuinely love my children and strive to do my best. From the moment I learned I was expecting, I understood the gravity and blessing of motherhood. The parents who have tragically forgotten their children likely tried their hardest as well.
It’s all too simple to forget. A sleepless night or a shift in routine can easily disrupt our focus. A phone call or family emergency can pull our attention away. All it takes is the mind operating on autopilot, moving from one point to another without truly being aware.
How many of us have experienced such moments? Many of us have.
So, how can we prevent this from happening?
After my close call, I developed a list of strategies to ensure I never forget my children:
- Place your essentials in the backseat: By keeping your purse or phone next to your child, you’ll be reminded to check the back when you retrieve your belongings.
- Engage with your child: Even if your baby is just a few days old, talking to them in the car can help you remember they’re there.
- Set reminders: Use daily emails or phone alarms to prompt you at designated times.
- Involve others: Establish a system with family members to confirm all children are accounted for at drop-offs.
- Leave a familiar item in the front seat: A toy or diaper bag can serve as a visual reminder.
- Take off a layer: In winter, leave your coat in the back; in summer, take off a shoe. You won’t get far without these essentials, prompting you to remember.
- Utilize technology: With the rise in tragic incidents, there are now devices designed to alert parents if a child is left in the car.
Please take precautions to remind yourself never to forget your children. We all believe we wouldn’t fall into that category of “that kind of parent,” but those who have forgotten likely thought the same.
For further reading on this topic, check out this informative resource on infertility statistics. It’s also essential to stay informed about safe practices in parenting, and this page provides valuable insights as well.
In summary, while the thought of leaving a child in a vehicle feels unimaginable, the reality is that it can happen to anyone. Developing strategies to stay mindful can help prevent such tragedies.