‘Baby on Board’ Placards

It was with complete surprise that we read the letters from readers who totally misperceived the purpose of the “Baby on Board” or “Child in Car” placards. Never did it cross our mind to be so egotistical as to presume that other drivers should drive more safely around those of us who display such signs in our car windows.

We carry those placards purely as a public service. Yes, our purpose is entirely altruistic--that is, to warn other drivers that a harried and distracted mother is behind the wheel. Many is the time that we find ourselves driving with one hand and one eye while searching frantically under the seat for the lost pacifier or bottle for our screaming baby and attempting to rebuckle our 2-year-old Houdini’s car seat strip, while trying to retrieve the groceries, which are rolling around the floor of the car.

For those letter writers who commented on the unsafe speed at which these cars often travel, again this is for the safety of other motorists. We are trying desperately to get ourselves and our screaming passengers off the roads as soon as possible.

So when you see those yellow diamond-shaped messages in the rear windows of cars, steer clear and be thankful we have the common decency to warn you.

CATHERINE CARLISLE

ANNIE PAINE

Redondo Beach