While car manufacturers are more conscious than ever to take into account mums' requirements, pretty colours and extra big bumpers are not top of our list. Here’s what we really need:
1. Novelty car interiors
When it comes to car interiors the general rule seems to be the sleeker, the better; however we’re not the ones who spend the journey looking at it. While we’re paying attention to what’s going on through the windscreen, our little ones are looking around for something to amuse them. That’s why a Thomas the Tank Engine or Dora the Explorer décor would be deadly.
2. Stain-resistant seats
For all those little mishaps; when your child is having a tantrum while you’re driving you will literally do anything to keep them quiet. It is only later when you realise blackcurrant juice in a cup without a lid was probably a bad idea…
3. A special rocking motion
For when you’re trying to get them to drop off, this needs to kick in when you stop at traffic lights or for any other reason. Cars that have an engine that switches off when you’re stationary are not designed with mothers in mind. The minute that happens, the baby wakes up.
4. A sat nav
One that uses the voice of Peppa Pig with the option of extra snorts for when things are getting tense.
5. A refrigerated glove box
This should be standard; keeping bottles, snacks and water cool. Ideally big enough to be able to stick your head in every so often.
6. Fold-away picnic table
Sunny weather means one thing – picnics. However for most of us, the minute we arrive we want to eat so if a foldaway picnic table could magically unfold out of the boot it would make things a lot easier.
7. A coffee maker
To give you a caffeine fix without having to leave the car. When you’re knackered on a long journey or just suffering from lack of sleep, coffee at the touch of a button would be a star (bucks) feature.
8. Hideaway shoe cupboard
How often have you arrived at your destination and realised your footwear is completely unsuitable; that’s when a hideaway shoe cupboard would come in handy.
9. A foot massager
Sometimes it’s not the driver that is the one who has the most difficult journey. For the other passengers having to entertain, feed, wipe up and calm the kids, a foot massager would be a nice touch.
10. A magazine rack
For when you need some alone time; if things are getting fraught in the house and your partner’s home then don’t rule out the car as a little space to get away from it all…
Jennie lives in Co Kildare with her husband Matt and son Ethan, who is two-years-old. In her blog mummyvstheworld.com she takes a lighthearted look at the world of motherhood. You can also find her musings on twitter @DennehyJennie.
