Learning to Drive Safe When You're a Mum

Yup, that's right. I still haven't passed my driving test. There are so many reasons for this and one of my biggest barriers is my anxiety and fear of failing. Again.  I have been working hard to get over these, I drive regularly in my own car with my hubby by my side and kids in the back - trying to give myself the confidence I need. It's working. I truly believe I will be driving soon, but I still have some worries about driving with the kids on my own.

One of my biggest fears is if I was to break down on my own. I don't know how to change a tire, check a battery, let alone attempt these things with two children in tow, that literally is what my nightmares are made of!  I think something I have learnt from my dear dad, is to ensure that your car is well looked after. Obviously, there are things you can't control, but ensuring you a checking the car regularly can only minimise these risks and put your mind at ease. For example, the battery a pretty important component in a car, if it leaks it can cause damage to the engine, if it dies completely you could be left stranded (with children - no thank you!!) and so if you're not mechanically minded like me and my husband then get your car serviced regularly, you can get your car servicing done in Hertfordshire today, from DAT tyres, quick and easy and you know you can put your mind at ease.  You really should never be tempted to skip a service as it can lead to small issues going unnoticed which can cause much larger issues in the long run, which normally means a much bigger bill. Plus, for me being an anxious driver leaving a car exposed to potential problems is never a good idea, especially when your travelling with kids.

Another one of my constant worries is Henry trying to escape from his car seat. I think this is something all parents worry about, but for us, we never had that experience with our daughter. She was as good as gold. But Henry, oh no. He is a little Houdini! We luckily have just received a new car seat by Joie from Kiddies Kingdom and so far it has certainly been very good. He's comfortable, can still see out of the window and most of all the straps stay put.

Finding the time to learn to drive as a mum has proven difficult. At the beginning of the year I had lessons, but they fizzled out because we could not seem to find time to fit them in. So instead I've been driving our own car whenever I can. Obviously, I'm going to need a couple of lessons to practice for the test as I think they actual tests have changed quite a bit from when I was 18 (11 years ago!!!). My husband has been so patient and has really built my confidence. I'm so very grateful for all his help.

One thing I am looking forward to is to my freedom. Being unable to drive is something that can make you be very isolated and being a mum, that's certainly not a good thing. I want to take them on adventures beyond the trains and buses, without the husband (he's quite lovely, but it would be nice to take them to our favourite spots on my own) and not feel so constricted all the time. Deep down I feel this is something that contributes to my anxiety, I'm definitely the kind of mum who prefers to be out of the house adventuring with my two rascals.

One day soon I will be a confident driver and our adventures will have no limits.

Mummy B xoxox

*Collaborative Post