Babies and toddlers somehow always find a way to get into everything you don’t want their little hands in. And just when you think that you have thought of everything, they get into something that you never realized they could even reach. You turn your head and they are seemingly sprinkled with fairy dust that gives them the power to derive a master plan to get into anything dangerous. We know you can relate!
We have all been there as busy parents and had that “oh no!” moment. You are not alone in this!
Tips For Baby-proofing Your Home
As your little one grows, it’s important to make sure your home is set up to help keep them safe. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious, and even everyday items can become potential hazards as they explore.
These tips for baby-proofing your home can help you identify common risks and create a safer environment for your little one.
Make sure that all steps and doors are appropriately blocked.
Falls are a concern for babies and toddlers as they become more mobile. Make sure that you have good gates that lock properly and use them to block off stairs or areas that aren't safe for your little one.
When your little one is wearing shoes, make sure they fit properly, allow them to walk without tripping, and are tied and secured.
As your child grows, continue checking that gates and other safety barriers are secure and appropriate for their age and development.
Keep furniture and TVs securely anchored.
As little ones become more mobile, they may pull themselves up on furniture or try to climb. Make sure dressers, bookshelves, TVs, and other heavy furniture are securely anchored to the wall to help prevent them from tipping over.
Keep electrical outlets and cords out of reach.
Use safety covers on unused electrical outlets and keep cords tucked away and out of reach. Check that cords from lamps, electronics, and other appliances aren't hanging where your little one can pull on them.
Lock up detergents, soaps, and anything that might look like candy.
For little ones, it is easy to get confused between items that are candy and items that might look like candy. Be mindful of this as parents and make sure that all of your cleaning products, detergents, soaps, or anything else that looks like a child could mistake for candy is locked away.
Keep these products out of reach and securely stored, even if you think your child can't reach them yet.
Button batteries need to be out of reach.
One of the biggest concerns that Dr. Goudy has shared over and over again on TikTok is to be extremely cautious of button batteries. Just like some of the household cleaners mentioned above, button batteries can look like candy, but has very harmful effects on a child’s body if swallowed. As parents, be on alert for button batteries in everyday household items, including hearing aids, and make sure they are kept out of reach of children at all times.
Keep hot foods, drinks, and appliances out of reach.
Hot coffee, food, cookware, and appliance cords can all pose burn risks to curious little ones. Keep hot items away from edges and never leave hot drinks within your child's reach.
Make sure pets are baby friendly.
Pet-related injuries can happen when children are around pets who aren’t used to having them at their level and being inquisitive. This can be especially important when visiting a new home or spending time around an unfamiliar pet. If your little one is around a pet they aren't familiar with, make sure they are supervised and give the pet space when needed.
We hope we have provided you with some great suggestions today for baby-proofing your home and helping keep your little one safe every day!
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