Parents spend three full days a year doing the school run, according to a new study by Citroën that highlights the scale of daily travel required for family logistics. The survey found the average parent drives 76 hours annually ferrying children to and from school. That workload accounts for 60 percent of the total weekly mileage driven by a typical parent, representing a significant portion of their yearly driving time.
Chores often tag along with the drop-offs. More than half of the respondents said they incorporate shopping or other errands into the daily commute to make better use of their time. Despite the routine nature of these trips, stress is a common byproduct. Thirty-eight percent of parents find the school run stressful, while 23 percent describe the experience as chaotic. This anxiety often stems from the unpredictability of the journey itself.
Yet, 88 percent view the daily trip as a vital opportunity to socialise with their children. If the commute were less physically taxing, the experience might improve. Almost half (48 percent) of those surveyed said better car comfort would reduce the stress of the school run. Furthermore, many parents express a desire for safer driving environments, as two-thirds of respondents believe driving skills should be part of the school curriculum to ensure safer roads for everyone.
For many families, the journey involves handling crowded streets and unpredictable weather conditions. A smoother ride could transform a stressful commute into a more pleasant interaction. This shift in the driving experience could give parents the mental space to focus on conversation rather than road conditions. The physical comfort of the vehicle becomes a key factor in managing the daily pressure. Ensuring the car is a sanctuary from the outside world is essential for maintaining patience during these trips.
Citroën’s Advanced Comfort Programme aims to address these concerns by using hydraulic technology to absorb road imperfections. The system is designed to shield occupants from the bumps outside, utilizing the marque’s renowned suspension systems to provide a stable platform. “At Citroën, we recognise the importance of the school run journey and want parents to be able to enjoy these valuable periods of socialisation,” said Greg Taylor, managing director of Citroën UK. “At Citroën, the Advanced Comfort Programme takes the stress out of the drive, so they can focus on the important conversations with their children and hopefully find enjoyment in these journeys”.