Pulling in and out of a parking lot can be dangerous business. Carts, car doors and moving vehicles all pose a threat. To keep your kids safe and protect other drivers and their cars, institute a mom-first policy for exiting the car.
This means, regardless of the child’s age and proximity to a door, Mom should unbuckle and exit the car first. Once Mom has assessed the situation, the next one to exit is the one whose door is opened by Mom. If you have a baby or toddler in a car seat, this will ensure you can retrieve the little on without the older ones being in danger outside the vehicle.