WARNING--this discusses child loss. I'm sharing this because we haven't discussed it yet but this is an upsetting topic.
Every year, far too many children die in cars after being forgotten by their parents. Usually when it happens, it's a media blitz and the most common thing I hear is "what kind of parent could forget a child?".
That thought--the idea that only bad parents forget that it could NEVER happen to you-- is why I'm sharing the link.
I warn you... This article haunts me. I read it when pregnant with DS and some phrases have never left me. It does contain graphic descriptions and heartbreaking stories. It answers the question of how this happens, how good parents leave their children behind.
Do not read this article if you're at work or somewhere you cannot cry.
@rondackhiker -- slight t/j...and small world - I've actually corresponded with the author of this story a few times, about this article and a different topic. He's a cool dude. About this article, he said it was "the best and worst thing he has ever written."
Very scary topic, but I think it's a good reminder for all of us. I'm also skipping the link because at work, but I remember it being incredibly moving.
I skipped the link b/c I've read similar before and it haunts me. I can totally see how it happens- particularly when deviating from your normal routine when your brain is in autopilot. But it still scares the crap out of me. I did send one link/video to DH with our first child and he told me it made him physically ill to read/watch it. But he also understands now and he's patient enough with me not to get annoyed when I call/text to make sure he dropped off the kids at daycare. For all the FTMs, this is a critical conversation to have with dad or any other caregivers. Also, for those who have older children in daycare who ride the bus for outings... Ask what their procedures are for checking that all kids are off the bus. We've had a couple deaths in GA where a LO fell asleep after a field trip and no one noticed they didn't exit the bus.
Re: Forgetting baby in car (warning-loss mentioned in link inside post)
It scares me so much. Unintentional child death does make anyone a bad parent.
I try to keep my pocket book in the back so I have extra reason to look back when leaving y vehicle.
Maybe have him read this? I shared it with everyone who drives my kids.