This new initiative from KKH aims to protect the littlest lives on the road.
Bringing a newborn home from the hospital is a momentous occasion, one filled with excitement, nerves, and a hefty dose of reality as new parents adjust to the responsibilities ahead. But amid the flurry of preparation, one crucial aspect of infant safety is often overlooked: the car ride home.
KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) is stepping in to change that. A new initiative offers complimentary newborn car seats to parents, ensuring that their baby’s very first journey is as safe as possible.
The programme, designed to reduce the risk of road traffic injuries among children, will benefit approximately 300 newborns annually.
“Every year, we see around 400 children coming through our doors due to road traffic accidents. Many of these injuries, particularly to the head, spinal cord, and internal organs, could have been prevented if the child had been in a properly secured car seat. It’s heartbreaking to witness the consequences of something so preventable.”
Dr Ronald Tan, Senior Consultant at KKH’s Department of Emergency Medicine
A study involving 1,483 children and adolescents injured in road traffic accidents revealed that more than half were not in a child car seat at the time of the incident.
A second study, focused on child car seat usage, found that many parents and caregivers lacked knowledge on proper installation and usage, while some remained sceptical about their necessity.
Others cited inconvenience and cost as reasons for not securing their children in car restraints, despite it being a legal requirement.
“With the Newborn Car Seat Programme, we’re equipping families with the knowledge, resources, and support to make safe travel second nature. This initiative is about building lifelong habits that will keep children safe from infancy through to adulthood,” Dr Tan added.
Parents expecting a baby at KKH can register their interest in the programme during their antenatal check-ups or sign up online. To ensure they are well-prepared before their baby arrives, the car seats will be distributed by the time parents reach their third trimester.
Recognising that proper installation and usage are just as important as owning a car seat, KKH is providing parents with educational video guides and direct access to a Child Passenger Safety Expert.
The initiative is made possible through a collaboration between KKH, Traffic Police, Komoco Motors, and Mothercare. As industry leaders in their respective fields, both Komoco Motors and Mothercare are committed to making Singapore’s roads safer for its youngest passengers.
“As a mobility provider, we see the aftermath of road accidents. We want to make a difference where it counts, ensuring children are protected from the moment they leave the hospital. That’s why we’re proud to sponsor these car seats, providing parents with both the equipment and the confidence to use them correctly.”
Tracy Teo, Marketing Director of Komoco Motors
To ensure children continue to travel safely beyond their first year, parents who return the loaned car seat when their child turns one will receive a subsidy towards the purchase of the next age-appropriate car seat.
“Every parent wants the best for their child, and safety is at the core of that journey. That first ride home is a milestone moment, and we believe every newborn deserves to travel safely. By partnering with KKH and Komoco Motors, we’re fostering a culture of safety that will benefit families for years to come.”
Mothercare’s Group Managing Director, Pang Fu Wei
As of 3 March 2025, the programme has already reached full subscription. While sign-ups are currently closed, parents can stay updated on future openings through KKH’s official channels.
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