This month I have been kept very busy with a lot of web site moving, updating, and computer repair from a virus. Needless to say, I haven’t had much time to add new information to Your Child’s Journey or even correspond much. But one thing did come to my inbox that I think you will really like to know about.
Baby Proofing and Child Safety at Home: A Complete Guide
This a very interesting web site with so much valuable information to help parents keep their children safe.
The site is divided up according to the type of danger. For babies to preschoolers the information I thought most helpful would be the Chocking and Suffocation section, Preventing Injuries from Falls, and Poison Safety. Other sections you might want to read are: Electrical Safety, Kitchen Safety, and Car, Garage, and Outdoor Safety.
I realize that some of the suggestions just won’t work in Malaysia, but being aware of the danger, you will be able to come up with ways that work for you.
Our children grow so quickly and what was not a danger to them last week, may need our attention now. I suggest you get down at your child’s eye level and take a look around your house and any other place your child spends much time. You will more easily spot interesting, but dangerous things that you will want to change.
Hovering and being over-protective, teaches your children to fear for their own safety. It is better to child-proof your home, then your child can explore and learn, safe from serious dangers.
One thing I feel parents must teach their children is to stop when they tell them to. Children must learn this is not negotiable. Use the same word and tone each time you tell your child to stop. It is not a game nor is obedience a choice. This takes persistence on the parents’ part and consistency. But it may be the most important safety precaution you can take.
I heard the story of a mom who played a game with her young child. He was to do the opposite of whatever she said. So if she said, “Come”, he would go. If she said, “Sit”, he would stand. One day, seeing her son run toward the street, she yell, “Stop”. Yes, you know the tragic ending of this tale. He ran full steam into the street and was killed by an oncoming car that could not have seen him.
Of course I don’t believe any of you would be as foolish as that mom. But by neglecting to reinforce your authority you could unwittingly put your child in danger.
We trust our children to God’s care. He loves our children even more than we do. He protects our children from so many things we could not prevent. But I believe He also wants us to be responsible and do our part to give our children a safe and healthy environment to grow in.
Take a look around. Fix whatever you need to improve your safety standards. Pray for your family’s safety. And then enjoy each other and watch the miracle of your child’s development.