BoostApak
CAR JOURNEYS
Almost three quarters of parents bribe their children with sweets on long car journeys - to keep them quiet, it was revealed yesterday (Wed).
Researchers found millions of mums and dads ensure a smooth and peaceful trip by constantly handing over food, drink and other treats.
Nearly half of the 3,000 parents polled admitted their children consume more sweets and snacks on a car journey than on any other occasion.
It also emerged typically parents give in after just 41 minutes of the trip.
Rob Law, spokesman for car seat makers www.boostapak.com, said: ''Driving long distances with young children is stressful and parents need an armoury of diversion tactics up their sleeves to avoid the common travel traumas.
''Child safety and security is the first priority, but parents should also plan how to entertain and occupy youngsters during long car journeys, including extra contingency plans for unforeseen delays.
''Parents that value their sanity should go prepared with more than treats alone. There are plenty of travel tips and games that can be downloaded for free to avoid the universally loathed 'are we there yet' moment.''
The study also found almost three quarters of parents admitted having a whole host of tricks up their sleeves to keep the children quiet on the road.
And while a third said they felt guilty for the amount of junk food they are feeding the kids, they admitted they would do anything for a quiet life.
However, one in four admitted the plan often backfires with kids getting hyped up due to the mountain of sugar they consume in the car.
In addition to sweets, chocolate and crisps, a third of parents have installed a DVD player in the car for the sole purpose of keeping the children entertained.
Three quarters of parents play games with their children in the car - with the most popular being I spy, spot-the-car and lorry spotting.
One in three let their children dictate what music is played - regardless of whether they chose the Bob the Builder theme tune, nursery rhymes or pop on the radio.
Half of parents encourage their children to read when in the car, and six in ten treat them to sticker books and puzzles.
And a further third of parents stock up on brand new toys ahead of a car journey, to reward their children for being quiet.
