Having a little one around the house is both a time of joy and worry. “Oh look, now they can reach the junk drawer!” With every new milestone comes an opportunity to help make your home safe and welcoming for your child.
Once your child can roll, (usually anywhere from 2 months to 4), leaving them on a raised surface is not an option, without some kind of safeguard in place. Once they start to crawl, it is wise to get on the floor yourself and look around.
How many cords are in reach?
Do electrical outlets have covers?
What about stairs? Fireplaces, wood stoves?
For some parents a designated play area is most helpful, whether it is a playpen, or an area that has been made safe. Instead of constantly having to say, “no, no”, you can say, “Let’s play over here”!
It is also helpful to have important numbers at the ready, for those unseen emergencies:
Poison Control- 1-800-222-1222
211 Info-Text “children” to 211
Your child’s pediatrician’s number
With the upcoming holidays, there are added matters to consider-placement of holiday trees, decorations, candles, etc. Going to the homes of other family members or friends who do not have young children is a chance to be proactive. Rather than be exasperated, constantly chasing, holding, taking away, etc. from your child, attempt to make the occasion more enjoyable. Questions like; “Is there something I can bring or do to help prepare for my very active 2-year-old?” or “Baby’s nap time is usually from 11-2, could we plan our visit before or after?” Be sure to bring favorite toys to substitute out Grandma’s favorite knick-knacks. And remember to breathe and enjoy the very special stage your child is in now; it won’t last very long!
Parenting Now’s First Three Years program covers home safety in depth, contact us for more resources and information on keeping your home safe and educational for your children, resources.parentingnow.org