The Science of Happiness: Why Experiences Outshine Gifts Research consistently demonstrates that experiences lead to greater and longer-lasting happiness than material possessions. Van Boven and Gilovich (2003) found that experiences become part of our children’s identity, making them more memorable and emotionally impactful. Kirk et al. (2017) highlight that social experiences—playing with family or friends—are remembered more vividly and tend to foster stronger bonds over time. Why are experiences so impactful? They involve rich sensory, social, and emotional details that contribute to a deeper sense of fulfillment (Hsee & Abelson, 1991). As children grow, their ability to reflect on these moments enhances their appreciation, promoting long-term happiness (Lehnert et al., 2018). Wilson and Gilbert (2005) explain that people—children included—predict that experiences will bring more sustained joy because they are inherently more meaningful and enriching. How Experiences Stimulate the Brain and Boost Happiness When children engage in shared activities, their brains release dopamine—the chemical associated with pleasure, motivation, and bonding (Kringelbach & Berridge, 2009). While a new toy might deliver a quick happiness boost, this feeling often fades as children adapt to possessions. In contrast, meaningful experiences—like outdoor adventures or family projects—activate multiple brain regions involved in social bonding and long-term memory, leading to sustained happiness and stronger emotional connections (Berkman et al., 2014). Practical Ways to Create Joyful Holiday Experiences This holiday season, consider these simple yet powerful ways to foster lasting memories:
A Heartwarming Christmas Eve Tradition: Stargazing and Imagination One memorable tradition is to step outside on Christmas Eve, dressed warmly, and gaze at the night sky. Find a quiet spot in your backyard or nearby park and take a moment to appreciate the stars. Ask your children what they see—perhaps a snowman, a teddy bear, or a Christmas tree in the constellations. Invite them to create stories about their shapes and figures, fostering their imagination and sense of wonder. Enhance this activity by preparing a small gift—like a box with a crayon and black paper—encouraging your children to draw their constellations and stories. For extra magic, wrap a tiny surprise inside, with a note saying, "Look up, and you will find your gift." If weather conditions don’t permit stargazing, get creative indoors: craft your own constellations with glitter, create night sky murals, or invent new stories together. Final Thoughts This holiday season, remember that the most precious gifts are the shared experiences that create lasting memories. By investing in time, imagination, and connection, you’re helping your children build emotional resilience, foster joy, and develop lifelong bonds. Science shows us that these moments are the true treasures—more valuable than any material gift. For practical ideas to make this holiday truly unforgettable and help your children create lasting memories, explore our guide: Holiday Experiences – Create Lasting Memories This Christmas or Holiday. It’s filled with simple, meaningful activities that foster joy, wonder, and connection. If you're interested in understanding the science behind why experiences bring more happiness than material gifts, be sure to check out our article: Experiences Over Things. Together, these resources can help you make this holiday season the most meaningful yet focused on creating treasured moments that will last a lifetime. Create lasting memories, cherish the moment, and let the magic of shared experiences light up your family’s holiday season! References
0 Comments
As a leader in child passenger safety and injury prevention, we were pleased to learn that the recently published Schwebel et al. (2026) paper was released, with our longitudinal study, DeCarli et al. (2024), being cited within their article. We are encouraged to find that their results, similar to ours, demonstrate that remote/telehealth car seat educational services are just as effective—and in many cases, even more so—than in-person sessions. As noted in our paper, remote/telehealth approaches empower parents and caregivers by enabling them to learn and perform each car seat task correctly on their own. Since there is no Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) physically present, the technician guides and teaches virtually, which aligns with our general approach to training and empowering parents. Furthermore, we appreciated that Schwebel et al. (2026) emphasized both car seat installation and proper use. Too often, there is an overemphasis on installation alone, with insufficient attention to actual use. Based on our experience and recent research, approximately 30% of misuse errors relate to installation, while roughly 70% stem from improper use—such as not restraining the child correctly. Through our study, DeCarli et al. (2024), which utilized CPST training in Behavioral Skills Training (BST) to deliver a standardized curriculum, we found a significant benefit of BST over non-BST methods in reducing car seat misuse (We are currently working on Continuing Education Unit (CEU) classes for CPSTs on BST/CPS training). We are continuing to validate our methodology through longitudinal follow-up with previous participants and by including new participants to assess the generalizability of our findings, both in in-person and remote/telehealth settings. Interestingly, we observe similar results over time. Notably, between 6 and 14 months, as parents transition from infant to convertible car seats, many contact us again for additional training or to confirm the most appropriate seat. This ongoing engagement illustrates the value of having a CPST available via text or phone, providing support during these critical transition periods. While it was encouraging to see that Schwebel et al. (2026) reported similar positive outcomes with their remote/telehealth approach, we must emphasize the importance of measuring follow-up duration and sustainability in research—such as at 4, 6, or 9 months—to truly assess long-term impact. Overall, the findings of both Schwebel et al. (2026) and DeCarli et al. (2024) validate the remote/telehealth approach and support the continued expansion of our National Telehealth Car Seat Call Center, which offers BST services both in-person and via remote/telehealth nationwide. The Call Center serves the continental United States, including Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Territories such as Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.
References
Join Us in Celebrating National Injury Prevention Day: Protecting Our Children, Empowering Families11/18/2025
Why Does Injury Prevention Matter? Despite strict safety regulations on products like baby furniture, toys, and household items, preventable injuries still occur. These incidents often happen due to simple lapses in supervision or the lack of proper safety equipment—such as falling from stairs, drowning in swimming pools, poisoning, or suffocation. Many of these injuries happen in everyday situations, from a brief moment of distraction near a hot stove to not wearing an appropriate and correctly fastened bicycle helmet, not restraining your child correctly in a properly installed car seat or booster seat, or not wearing your seat belt correctly, even during pregnancy. Remember, injuries are 100% preventable. The Role of Parents and Caregivers Children are natural explorers, and they learn behaviors by observing those around them—especially their parents and caregivers. Unfortunately, some learned behaviors, such as unsafe supervision or neglecting safety gear, can increase injury risk. Moreover, injuries can also stem from intentional harm or violence. That’s why it’s essential to model healthy, safe behaviors consistently. How Can You Make a Difference? National Injury Prevention Day provides a perfect opportunity for families, caregivers, and community members to take action. Here’s how you can participate by practicing safety measures for prevention:
Evidence-Based Support and Resources Supported by Public Health Behavior Solutions, our organization provides research-backed injury prevention strategies and train-the-trainer programs for professionals, including Health Education Materials. We also offer services designed to reduce exposure to injury risks and promote health and wellness for families everywhere. Join Us in Making a Difference On November 18th, let’s unite to prevent injuries before they happen. By staying informed, practicing safe behaviors, and sharing our safety knowledge, we can help create a safer environment for every child. Visit ProCarSeatSafety.com/ParentCentral.html for practical tips, resources, and tools to protect your family. Together, we can build a future where injury-free childhoods are a reality for all. Remember: Safety is a shared responsibility. Let’s commit to being injury-free—today and every day. #BeInjuryFree | Injury Prevention Day | Protect Our Children  While this article is primarily aimed at public health and highway safety professionals, policymakers, and urban planners, it also offers valuable safety tips for the general public and caregivers. As micromobility—such as e-bikes and e-scooters—continues to grow rapidly, understanding how to stay safe is essential for all users and those responsible for their well-being. Recent reports from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlight concerning injury and fatality trends, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated efforts. Implementing a centralized injury data system, complemented by the formation of a dedicated task force, will help develop more effective safety policies and infrastructure improvements, ultimately reducing injuries and saving lives. At the end of this article, caregivers and users are provided with safety tips to help mitigate risks and promote responsible use of micromobility devices. The Rise of Micromobility in Urban Transportation Micromobility, encompassing light vehicles such as bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters, has become an integral part of sustainable urban transportation. With the convenience of short-distance travel and the proliferation of shared fleets—often rented via mobile apps—micromobility has experienced exponential growth. In the United States alone, trips on shared bikes and e-scooters more than doubled from 2017 to 2018, totaling nearly 84 million trips in 2018. As this mode of transport becomes more prevalent, understanding its safety profile is critically important. Concerning Injury and Fatality Trends: Insights from the CPSC Recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reveals that injuries and fatalities related to micromobility devices are rising at an alarming rate. The CPSC’s latest report indicates that, despite various existing databases, injury and fatality data are fragmented, making it difficult to develop comprehensive safety strategies. The report emphasizes the necessity for a coordinated national effort to track these injuries systematically. Key findings include:
These troubling trends highlight the urgent need for a dedicated task force to oversee injury prevention efforts, data collection, and policy implementation. The Need for a Centralized Injury Data System and a Task Force While various databases exist—such as hospital records, insurance claims, and transportation safety reports—they are often siloed and lack standardization. To address this, establishing a comprehensive, centralized injury database is essential. Such a system would enable real-time data collection, analysis of injury patterns, and identification of high-risk behaviors or environments. However, data alone is insufficient. The CPSC report advocates for the creation of a national micromobility safety task force comprising stakeholders from public health, transportation agencies, law enforcement, micromobility companies, and community organizations. The task force would:
The Path Toward Safer Micromobility: Research, Policy, and Enforcement As micromobility expands rapidly, ongoing research is vital to understand its full impacts and to craft effective policies. This includes:
Safety Tips for Micromobility Users and CaregiversFor Users:
For Caregivers and Parents:
Community and Infrastructure Recommendations:
By following these safety tips, riders and caregivers can reduce the risk of injuries and contribute to a safer environment for everyone using micromobility devices. References
After Remembrance Day, Focus Shifts to Prevention: Road Traffic Deaths Are 100% Preventable11/17/2025
Preventive Measures Save LivesExperts highlight that simple, effective actions can make a critical difference, including:
A Call to Action for All Road Users"Every death on our roads is a tragedy that can be avoided," says Dr James DeCarli, an Injury and Neuroepidemologist, and Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) with Public Health Behavior Solutions and Pro Car Seat Safety. "After we honor lives lost, we need to shift our focus from remembrance to prevention by making safety a priority every day." Support for Parents and Caregivers To assist families in ensuring their children are properly secured, the National Car Seat Call Center is available for guidance. Drivers, parents, and caregivers can contact the center at (323) 491-6197 for expert advice on car seat safety and installation. While we continue to honor those we've lost, let us also commit to protecting the living. Every step we take in our behaviors while on the road, saves lives—because prevention is in our hands. Please share this article and/or the downloadable handout, on social media using: #RoadSafety #PreventableDeaths #SaferRoads #ProtectLives For more information or assistance, visit Pro Car Seat Safety, or contact the National Car Seat Call Center at (323) 491-6197. References
Mental Health Impacts Among Children Children are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, with an estimated 13% of the global burden of disease attributable to neuropsychiatric disorders in individuals aged 5-14 years (WHO, 2021). Anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders can impede learning, social development, and future well-being. Early intervention is crucial, as mental health conditions often begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood if left unaddressed. Understanding Brain Development and Early Experiences Research shows that brain development is shaped by early childhood experiences, including exposure to stress and trauma. Such experiences influence our brain architecture, affecting behavior, decision-making, and risk-taking. This understanding helps explain how parents "parent," how children and teens behave, and why some may engage in risky behaviors. Recognizing these factors underscores the importance of supportive environments and targeted interventions during critical developmental periods. Mental Health Challenges Among Immigrants Immigrants face unique mental health risks due to factors such as acculturation stress, language barriers, discrimination, and trauma related to migration experiences. Studies indicate that immigrant populations are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For example, a 2018 study in the U.S. found that immigrant adults reported higher rates of psychological distress compared to native-born populations, with children and youth also experiencing elevated levels of anxiety and depression.
Why It Matters Addressing mental health in children and immigrant populations is vital for fostering resilient communities. Tailored programs, culturally competent care, and early intervention can significantly reduce long-term health disparities and improve quality of life. In an effort of Public Health Behavior Solutions International, our partners continue to promote psychological and emotional well-being by providing resources to parents and caregivers, including resources for professionals. The following resources include resources, strategies for managing emotions, coping skills, expressive journaling, relationship building, and addressing issues such as child abuse and neglect, child sexual abuse, physical health, healthy eating, and sleep quality.
In summary:
World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder of the critical need to prioritize mental health across all populations—especially vulnerable groups like children and immigrants—to promote healthier, more equitable societies. Our insights are supported by research from Public Health Behavior Solutions International, along with the impactful programs and resources provided by our partners at Pro Consumer Safety International. Together, these efforts aim to foster resilience, emotional well-being, and healthier communities worldwide. Halloween is a cherished time of year, filled with festive decorations, creative costumes, and exciting trick-or-treating adventures. For children and teens, Halloween night is often the highlight of the season, offering opportunities for fun and community bonding. However, as much as Halloween is a time for celebration, it also presents safety challenges that families should be aware of. Common injuries during this period include cuts and lacerations from pumpkin carving and pedestrian-related accidents during trick-or-treating, particularly during twilight hours when visibility is reduced.
Halloween Safety and AwarenessIn addition to the Halloween Safety webpage, the following evidence-based Halloween safety materials are also available for download, for organizations, schools, law enforcement, hospitals, community centers, libraries, etc., to help increase public awareness.      References
Pro Car Seat Safety Celebrates 10 Years of Saving Lives During Child Passenger Safety Week
Los Angeles, CA — September 21, 2025 — This week, Pro Car Seat Safety proudly marks a decade of dedicated service in advancing child passenger safety and public health education. To coincide with Child Passenger Safety Week (September 21-27), the organization is celebrating ten years of impacting families, caregivers, and communities across the United States. Since its founding in April 2015, Pro Car Seat Safety has trained over 30,000 parents and caregivers, reached more than 26,000 children, and provided vital hands-on installation, education, and professional training. As a NHTSA-certified mobile service, the organization has expanded its reach from Southern California to nationwide and internationally, incorporating innovative virtual programs based on evidence-based Behavioral Skills Training (BST). "Celebrating this milestone during Child Passenger Safety Week underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting children on every journey," said Dr. James DeCarli, Founder and Owner of Pro Car Seat Safety. "Over the past ten years, our team has worked tirelessly to educate, empower, and save lives — and we look forward to continuing this vital mission for many more years to come." To support families nationwide, since 2018, Pro Car Seat Safety offers a National Telehealth Car Seat Call Center—available for virtual consultations and personalized guidance. Families and caregivers can connect with our certified technicians by visiting https://www.procarseatsafety.com/callcenter.html or calling: (323) 491-6197 Throughout the week, Pro Car Seat Safety will share stories of families impacted, highlight new initiatives, and reaffirm its dedication to accessible, evidence-based safety education. The organization also invites community partners, healthcare providers, and families to join in celebrating this achievement and to continue prioritizing child passenger safety. Learn more about our 10-year journey and impact by visiting our dedicated anniversary page at https://www.procarseatsafety.com/anniversary.html. About Pro Car Seat Safety: Pro Car Seat Safety is a leading provider of child passenger safety services, training, and education dedicated to reducing injuries and saving lives through evidence-based practices and community outreach. For more information, visit https://www.procarseatsafety.com or contact Dr. James (Jim) DeCarli by email or at 323-491-6197. News Brief: Help Your Child Cope with Stress Through Daily Expressive Journaling If your child has been exposed to stress within your family, finding healthy ways to process their feelings is essential. A simple yet powerful tool--daily expressive journaling—can make a significant difference. Encouraging your child to write or draw for just 15 to 20 minutes each day provides a safe, calming space for them to express emotions, reduce anxiety, and build resilience.
References
expecting? protect your baby from the start - learn how to safely install and use your car seat6/25/2025
Start Early — Prepare Before Your Baby Arrives Timing is everything. We recommend having your appointment scheduled by your 34th week. This gives you ample time to learn, practice, and troubleshoot, so you can focus on welcoming your baby with peace of mind. Guiding You Through The Process Whether you're just considering learning about car seat safety, knowing what kind of car seat, or ready to master the installation, we help guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring you're fully prepared. Our Mobile Service Offers Expecting Parents:
 |
AuthorDr. DeCarli is an injury and neuroepidemiologist with over 15 years of public health expertise. He is the founder of Pro Consumer Safety and Public Health Behavior Solutions, focusing on behavioral interventions to reduce childhood injuries and improve health globally. He provides car seat safety training locally and nationwide via the Telehealth Car Seat Call Center, and regularly presents at news interviews, and national and international conferences. An educator and leader, he teaches courses on parenting, child development, and health promotion. With degrees from University of Southern California, George Washington University, and University of Oxford, and recent induction into the Delta Omega Honor Society, he is dedicated to advancing safer, healthier environments for children and communities worldwide. Archives
December 2025
Categories |
- Home
- About
-
Car Seats
- Recreational Vehicles
- News
- Car Seat Call Center
- Car Seat Rental
- Children Heat Cars
- Childproofing Services
- Child Safety Homefront
- Driving Wet Rainy Roads
- Extreme Heat
- Gift Certificates
- Traveling and on the Road
- Traveling & Car Rental
- New Car Shopping Guide
- Parent Central
-
Professional Support Services
- BST for CPST
- Car Dealership
- Car Insurance
- Car Rental Agency
- CBI Programs
- Community Benefit-Hospitals
- CPST Resources >
- Violator Car Seat Class >
- Day Care
- Film Production Car Seat Safety
- Health Education Materials
- Hospital Birthing
- Hotel Concierge
- Judge Training
- Law Enforcement
- Library Heatlh Education Workshops
- Limousine Car Hire
- Maternal and Neonatal Care
- Nanny Safety Hub
- News Media Advisory
- Pediatrician Services
- Publishing
- Realtors Child Safety
- RV CPS Working Group
- RV Rental Dealership
- Spica Cast Car Seat Loaner
- Vaccine Promotion Task Force
- Weather Conditions
- Workplace Safety >
- Terms of Service
- Privacy Policy
- Injury Prevention Partners
- Organizational Partners
- Health and Wellness
- DEI
- Foster Parents
- Anniversary
RSS Feed
The organizations, public agencies, and their logos displayed on this website represent our partners whose evidence-based research and collaboration informs our prevention programs; however, they do not provide endorsement.
|
Locations We Serve
Contact
|
|
Copyright 2015-2026 Pro Car Seat Safety * Los Angeles * Washington D.C * All rights reserved * DEI * Terms Of Service * Privacy Policy
|
|
|
|