One in three motorists have experienced a near miss due to their children throwing tantrums in the back seat, according to a survey of 500 parents. The main distractions cited by parents included squabbling siblings, relentless screaming and a barrage of questions.
Over a third of parents confessed to taking their eyes off the road when their children managed to unbuckle their seatbelts. For 19 per cent, the mayhem in the back seats resulted in a minor collision with another vehicle.
In an attempt to maintain order and prevent accidents, 57 per cent of parents admitted to bribing their children with snacks. Other tactics include playing their favourite tunes or promising rewards for good behaviour. Yet, a third found that the most effective strategy was to hand over a tablet or smartphone.
The research was commissioned by Volvo Car UK, as part of its Roadside Nature campaign, with the Eden Project and wildlife presenter Steve Backshall, to launch an activity pack to help keep children engaged with nature outside their windows, allowing parents to focus on the road.
Nicole Melillo Shaw, managing director for the car maker, said: “It’s no surprise so many parents find long car journeys stressful – trying to concentrate while managing tantrums, squabbles and constant questions is no easy task.
“The reality is it only takes a momentary distraction to lead to a potentially dangerous situation.
“From children slipping out of seatbelts to mid-drive snack demands, there’s a lot for parents to juggle behind the wheel.
“That’s why we’ve launched our Roadside Nature campaign – to help keep children calm, curious and occupied, so drivers can stay focused and stay safe.”
The research revealed 52 per cent of parents experience anxiety about going on lengthy journeys with their youngsters due to potential distractions.
A staggering 49 per cent have even scrapped travel plans to sidestep the nightmare of restless children causing mayhem during their trips.
Many said they would prefer to remain at home tackling household chores like washing or scrubbing the bathroom rather than brave a long car journey with restless little ones.
Parents estimate they manage approximately thirty minutes of peaceful driving before the moaning, crying and squirming beings.
Consequently, most families either planning or contemplating lengthy summer expeditions are strategically mapping their routes with extra precautions.
Nearly half plan to incorporate more frequent breaks allowing youngsters to release pent-up energy, whilst 23 per cent plan to get on the road earlier hoping to make progress while their little passengers nap.
A quarter added their children are noticeably calmer when driving through scenic or nature-rich areas. Yet the research also highlighted a growing disconnect between children and nature.
When polling 500 children the research found they are more likely to recognise Hogwarts Castle, or Peppa Pig’s House, than landmarks like Stonehenge or the White Cliffs of Dover.
They are also more familiar with Minions and Pikachu than dandelions or bluebells, and a fifth struggle to name common UK trees.
While 46 per cent were unable to identify an oak tree, 17 per cent lack confidence identifying insects – with 32 per cent of these unable to recognise a ladybird or a bumblebee (35 per cent).
Steve Backshall, official ambassador of Volvo Car UK’s Roadside Nature campaign, said: “Nature is full of wonder – but today’s kids are more familiar with cartoon castles than real ones.
“This pack is all about opening their eyes to the world beyond the screen, making every road trip a mini adventure.
“By encouraging children to appreciate their surroundings during travels, we not only keep them engaged but also minimise distractions for the driver – creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.”