Toddlers love nothing more than to run around and discover new things. While you need to allow your child enough freedom to explore, you also need to ensure he has a safe environment in which to do so.
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Toddler proofing your home does not have to be complicated. Ensure your toddler has a safe space to nurture his curiosity with these 5 easy steps.
Step #1 – Cover Outlets
Toddlers have tiny fingers and even though it seems like there is no way they could fit in an electrical outlet, they may somehow find a way. Electrical shock is a very real and potentially fatal danger that can easily be avoided by ensuring that all outlets are covered. Cover each one of them, even the ones tucked away behind the couch, behind the bed, or anywhere your toddler could possibly move furniture and get access.
Step #2 – Lock Cabinets And Drawers
Toddlers love to play with pots and pans but things can get scary very quickly if they get access to cupboards full of chemical products or any other product or food that may be inappropriate for a young child. Depending on the type of drawers and cabinets you have, there are various types of locks. From the ones that lock from the inside to the ones that stick on the outside, you can find a way to keep harmful things out of reach. Lock everything in the kitchen, the bathroom, and anywhere else you have products your child should not manipulate.
Step #3 – Stabilize Furniture And Other Large Objects
Toddlers have a knack for finding even the most boring dresser attractive. Go around your home, room by room, and secure any furniture (e.g. dressers, bookcases, tables, wardrobes) or larger object such as lamps that could potentially topple over. Any hardware store will have the supplies you need to ensure your toddler will not get hurt by a piece of furniture.
Step #4 – De-clutter Your Home
A cluttered home is often a serious safety concern for any child. To ensure your toddler’s safety around the home, remove anything that could present a hazard and keep the clutter at bay. Children are short and often see things we adults do not. Although it may sound silly, walk around your home on your hands and knees to get a sense of how your child views your home. You may spot many things that should be stored away that you otherwise would not have thought about.
Step #5 – Prevention Over Reaction
Although this step is not necessarily a concrete one, it is likely the most important of all; toddlers grow at a rapid pace and just because they cannot do something today does not mean status quo will remain for the following days. For example, if you know something may be dangerous for your child now, even though he cannot reach it today, remove it any way to prevent any accidents. It is always best to over-childproof your home rather than underproof it. In addition, never leave your child unattended for long periods; even the best childproofed homes will never be as good as proper adult supervision.
Video: Baby And Toddler Proofing Your Home
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