Yes, specki my parents would stop for a break on the way from a day out in Blackpool, and leave the four of us in the car with lemonade and crisps. In the late 50s, I would be the eldest at about 10, with sisters 8 and 6, and brother 4.
Last week, I sat with 4 children and a baby in one car, whilst mums and dads dashed into the supermarket for fresh supplies whilst on holiday. They were only gone 10 minutes, during which time I was soothing the crying baby and the 4, 6 and 7 year olds adjusted the lights, wing mirrors and radio. How the heck my parents managed to leave us and trust us not to get into mischief, I cannot fathom....but they did! Perhaps they would have sat still if I hadn't been there! 