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Never underestimate a toddler. Not only are they experts at exploring, but also experts at putting themselves in harm’s way. Before we cast judgement, it’s important to note that almost everyone reading this will have added to the stress levels of a parent or guardian when they were at this stage. As such, worrying about your own toddler now is a karmic debt that has come due.
But enough with the philosophy, let’s stick to the very real necessities – keeping your roaming toddler safe. As they learn to use their little legs, sometimes with frightening speed, one question is raised – how can I protect them from this house, and this house from them? Sometimes, the dividing line between both of those efforts is blurred.
Well fear not, because no matter how many times your child has watched the movie Home Alone, we have some tips to keep them safe:
Consider Handles & Drawers
A toddler tends to reach out, grab, and pull. That’s a problem when your cupboards are accessible. Sometimes, even replacing your front or back doors with composite doors that have higher openings can make a big difference. But for drawers and cupboards, inner catches can prevent them from being opened, as they require you to press more dextrously on the inner latch, a task considerably harder for small, clumsy fingers. That said, be sure to remove anything dangerous your toddler could theoretically reach, like cleaning supplies from under the sink.
Consider Pets
Don’t just assume your pet is safe, no matter how placid they are. Careful observation is key, as is telling your toddler no if they grab or pull on fur. Also, keep pet food and water bowls out of reach. Toddlers might try to eat them or splash in the water. Also, watch out for pet toys. They could be choking hazards. If you have a cat, keep the litter box where your toddler can’t get to it. For fish tanks, make sure they’re secure so your little one can’t pull them over.
Sharp Corners
Toddlers are always on the move, and they’re not always steady on their feet. This means bumps and tumbles are pretty much inevitable. That means, ideally, limiting the chances they have to hurt themselves when they do fall. That’s why thicker carpet can be great for little ones, but also be mindful of head-height corners they could run into. That might include table edges, fireplace hearths, and countertops, which can all be dangerous. You can buy corner guards or edge cushions to soften these spots easily, just make sure they’re stuck on well. If they’re too dangerous, you might remove them, like an unnecessary coffee table (at least for the time being.
Safety Gates
Safety gates are an obvious choice – they stop your child from going into a room completely. That might involve your garage, or downstairs from the top step, or into the bathroom where you may have tile floors, only letting them in when it’s time for a wash. This means you don’t require eyes in the back of your head – a bonus for any parent.
With this advice, you’re certain to toddler-proof your home reliably.
Note: This is a collaborative post
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