From the moment they’re born, our kids are watching us. They’re looking for cues about how to survive and thrive in this world. From the backseat of your car, they’re learning about what’s safe and unsafe. They’re seeing you react to your environment in real time. With all this watching, have you thought about the message you’re sending?

Distracted driving sets a poor example for everyone in the car. Even if you’re not using your phone, you might be driving distracted in other ways: adjusting entertainment, handing out food and drinks, picking up dropped toys. All of these actions take your focus off the road, too. Your children see this, and despite what you might say, you’re showing them that it’s acceptable.

The consequence: when they’re ready to drive, your children are likely to adopt the same unsafe behaviors that they’ve seen throughout their lifetimes. The next time you hop into the car, stop to think about what you can do to show your children safer ways to drive.

• You are the first and best role model for your children. Whether they’re still in diapers or already driving, demonstrating good driving habits will show your children that you take safety seriously.
• If you cannot put your phone away completely, ask a passenger to answer calls and messages.
• Set rules before you start the car. Remind children that you need to pay full attention to driving. If you need to make an entertainment adjustment or deal with food, drinks, or dropped toys mid-trip, pull over.