Young children are like little explorers. They love to touch, taste, and get into everything around them. It’s how they learn about the world! But while they explore, it’s our job as parents to make sure they’re safe.
The good news? Most injuries and accidents can be prevented with some simple steps and careful supervision. Dr. Kathryn Bowen from the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics says, “Young children, especially when they become fully mobile, can get into danger in the blink of an eye.”
Your child’s learning and growth depend on their ability to explore their environment safely. By childproofing your home, setting safety rules, and providing close supervision, you can create a safe and fun environment for your child to learn and grow. So, let’s look at some tips to keep our little adventurers safe and happy.
Put on your parent goggles
Get down to your child’s level and see the world through their eyes. What can they see and reach? Look for things that might seem fun but could be dangerous. This will help you spot hazards you might not have noticed before.
Stay ahead with childproofing
Childproofing isn’t a one-time task. As your child grows and learns new skills like crawling, walking, and running, you’ll need to reevaluate your home for new safety concerns. Dr. Bowen reminds us, “Never underestimate your child’s ability to find danger.”
Get everyone on board
Child safety is a team effort. Make sure everyone in your family knows the safety rules, including babysitters, grandparents and even older siblings. Explain your safety rules to visitors and house guests, too.
Be prepared for bumps and bruises
Active play is essential for children, and minor injuries are part of the deal. Keep a first-aid kit handy and have a list of emergency phone numbers, including your pediatrician and poison control. Knowing where everything is will help you stay calm in case of an emergency.
Pay attention
No amount of childproofing can replace the watchful eye of a parent or caregiver. Most injuries can be prevented with close supervision. Dr. Bowen warns, “When parents become too relaxed about safety, it can lead to tragedy.”
Create safe, fun play spaces
Keep baby books and toys on low shelves where they can easily reach them. Have a special drawer in the kitchen with child-safe items like plastic bowls, lids and spoons. Play together with your child to make their environment both stimulating and secure.
