Little children are in a constant state of wonderment. From knives and forks to glass vases, they are fascinated by everything they set their eyes on. This makes it difficult for us, as parents, to make sure that they don’t hurt themselves. As we can’t prevent children from running around and reaching for those shiny new objects lying around the house, following a few child-safety techniques is a good idea.
Childproofing is the term used to describe the safety techniques followed to make an environment safe for children. It aims to reduce the risk of potential injury to the child by setting specific standards. It is usually done when the baby is able to move independently. Babies who can crawl or walk are often found in potentially dangerous situations owing to their curious nature.
Let’s take a look at some effective childproofing techniques:
1. Crib or Playpen:
Crib or Playpen
These days one of the most effective ways to cut off physical access to risky areas for babies is by placing them in cribs or play pens. These are usually made out of wood and have a low bottom with high rails. The baby can be put in these until they learn to walk.
They stay contained in these structures while still having sufficient place to sleep, play, eat etc. Another advantage is that these cribs are portable and can be moved anywhere inside the house.
2. Baby Gate:
These are small safety gates placed before staircases to prevent the baby from tumbling down the stairs. These prevent head and face injuries and fractures. These can be placed anywhere inside the house but the most common areas of choice are staircases. Even if the baby walks, he or she will not be able to open the gate and walk through as it is slightly difficult to unlatch.
These can also be placed in front of swimming pools to stop young children from accidently falling and drowning in the pool. These are great for buying time when you can’t get to your child immediately to physically to stop them
3. Electrical Socket covers:
Electrical Socket covers
Babies tend to put their hands and fingers everywhere including power sockets. As they have tiny fingers they can slide them in easily and get electrocuted. You can prevent this by placing plastic power socket covers which bar access to the holes.
Sliding covers are preferred to other types as they snap into place automatically unlike those which need to be manually fixed.
4. Corner Guards:
Corner Guards
Corner Guards are thick spongy or rubbery, partially open tubes that you can use to slide over the edges of your furniture to prevent grievous injuries to your baby when he moves around the house. These are especially useful when the baby is crawling or walking, as in this age their coordination isn’t fully developed and they tend to fall a lot.
By covering up sharp corners you can prevent them from hurting their hands, legs, face, and head. These can also be used on doors to prevent accidental hand and finger injuries.
5. Cabinets and Shelves:
These simple yet effective pieces of furniture are a part of basic childproofing. Shelves, cupboards, cabinets should be used to store sharp objects which can harm your child. These include anything sharp or dangerous like cutlery, vases, electrical appliances, medicines, makeup products, and other chemicals.
By keeping these objects out of your child’s reach, you can prevent accidents and gift your child a safe, open area to explore.
Follow one or all of these techniques to make sure that your home is child-safe. Do you already use any of these methods? Share your insights on childproofing in the comments below. We’d love to know your thoughts!
