Reconsidering Childproofing Around the Home
Babies and toddlers, when left alone for a moment, get into everything. Although out of pure curiosity, this need to touch and explore everything is best done when a parent is present and alert. But if a parent isn’t paying attention every single second, how can a child stay out of trouble? A home needs to be childproofed.
Yet, the childproofing methods of yore, including outlet covers and baby gates, just aren’t enough, according to a parenting advice piece from the New York Times. According to the experts cited, homes have changing hazards and childproofing methods need to stay updated with them.
What new hazards should parents now think about?
• Cords are now considered strangulation hazards. Parents, in response, need to make sure their home is as cord-free as possible. Baby monitors, power tools, and even blinds need to be cord-free. Otherwise, the child can grab it and end up choking.
• Outlet covers are outdated, and parents removing them may forget to put them back in. Instead, experts recommend putting a horizontal slide plate over every outlet.
• Televisions and furniture can fall on babies and toddlers. Parents, to prevent any injuries, need to secure all such objects in their home.
• Homes have many small objects. As you look around your home for hazards, examine each small object and see if it can move through a toilet paper tube. If it can, it poses a choking hazard to a young child and needs to be kept out of reach.
As far as checking your home is concerned, examine it from a child’s level and make any necessary changes. But because each home has its own individual hazards, the experts suggest having a consultant come in to survey your home. All childproofing, as well, should be done before the baby arrives.
If you have childproofed your home, what advice do you have for new parents?
Comments
One Comment on Reconsidering Childproofing Around the Home
-
New Suggestions for Childproofing a Home | GotoBabyGifts on
Wed, 23rd Nov 2011 7:38 pm
[...] to fall over. Because parents can’t keep a watchful eye on their baby or toddler every moment, childproofing a home is [...]
Tell me what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
You must be logged in to post a comment.