Scared to drive with DS

[Bramblebutter]

My son is 11 months old. I still haven't driven with him on my own. I've driven a fair few times with him in the car, including for 2 hours with him, with DP in the car too.

DS is fine in the car. Sits looking out the window, has a little kip, wakes up and is still chill.

But I cannot push myself to take him out on my own.

I'm guessing I would of by now if it weren't for lockdown. And now the longer it's gone on the bigger deal it is.

I know I should just take him for a short drive round the neighbourhood. It's just, I can't seem to make myself.

And people are finally inviting me to things. I've barely seen anyone in a year. I want to go meet people. (I'm also worried about where would I change his nappy if no facilities are open though).

I'm not even an anxious person normally. And I'm a confident driver. What's wrong with me???

Change him on your lap or lay him on a seat.

You're right. Start with a short distance in a familiar area and build up. Once you've done it once you'll probably be fine.

If you're outside in parks etc, can't you just change your son on the grass? If no grass, as PP said, on back seat of the car.

The thought of trekking back to the multi story car park with DS sitting in his poo just really puts me off. But hopefully that will be a non issue soon as things begin to open up.

Nappy - keep a blanket in the boot of the car if necessary!

Can you make a plan to meet someone very locally so you have to do it but not too far

You need to start small. Drive round the block. To the shop. Etc.

Changing wise. Boot of car. Pat pram flat. In grade in park put mat down. Places like m and s and boots etc are all open now and have baby change. Services have baby change. Lay pram flag and do it. Lock down mama here abs have changed him in all these places as I am desperate to be out

I changed my little one in his pram the other day. Put a changing mat down and was quick, just found a private as possible spot.
You will be fine. It is daunting but trust me, no one is watching. I have to tell myself that over and over too.
It's worthwhile checking what shops have changing facilities. During lock down last year John Lewis feeding & changing was definitely open. It's worth asking rather than as you say trek back to the car

Babies can be changed anywhere. Just do it in the pushchair or on your knee (obviously not whilst in a restaurant or cafe but if you were in one of those then use the toilets obviously).

Thanks guys. I really really need to just sort this out. I believe I am generally being a good mum, but with this, I just think I seem pathetic. Like, how can a parent not cope with with all the variables and obstacles of being away from home. :(