Most children can be taught word recognition at a very young age. How? It is a similar method to learning to talk – children learn to talk by being exposed to people talking around them. To learn visual word recognition children need, first of all, exposure to the written word, in print.
Use children books with interesting stories. Picture books with few or no words in them will not teach your child to read. However, exposure to children’s books with many pages of print and the occasional picture will trigger your child’s curiosity about the story as well as familiarizing him or her with the written word. If, as you read to your child, you point to the words with your finger, your child will become more familiar with those words. Eventually he or she will begin to recognize the words when he or she sees them, especially those with a high emotional attachments
Flashcards can also be used to reinforce names of objects in the child’s environment. To teach your baby to read, on pieces of 10 x 10 inch plain white card, write words, in capital letters, that describe toys that belong to your child, for example “elephant’, and on another card ‘dog” and so on. Play the following game with your child. Place all the toys on the floor. As your child picks up a toy, show him the card with the word on it and say the word together. Repeat it as man times as he or she likes. Then read to your child a story about an ”elephant” or a “dog” or whatever animal or character you made word cards for. This will reinforce the word in your child’s mind, building word recognition abilities and increasing vocabulary. Additionally, invite your child to tell you a story, and you listen, write it down. When your child has finished, read the story back to him or her and point to each word as you go. When your child sees words in the context of her own vocabulary, it will again increase her recognition of the written word.
You should not have a preconceived schedule of success. There is no fixed time frame here. Your child could learn within days, weeks, or even months. Each child is different and your child’s ability will not be tested, but yours will. Your attitude, your patience, your perseverance, all of these will be tried and tested. You will find yourself having to evolve your own method for making your child love it.
You can use your imagination on your own teaching methods. A teacher friend of mine had her own method of teaching her daughter. She would hide a card with a word written on it behind her and approach her child playfully saying “What does mommy have for her baby” The one-year-old would look up and try to reach for the mysterious object. Then her mother would bring out the card and say with gusto “Cat!” The child’s delightful laughter proved that the game was having the desired effect. In no time at all, the child could read words. Soon she went on to short sentences. Her mother bought various simple books and every one held a treasure trove of knowledge for her young daughter. By the time she was four, the little girl surprised everybody with her familiarity with words and sentences. This mother’s success was due to her belief in her child, her healthy attitude, her patience, and her playfulness, which made her daughter look forward to every “reading game”
In the same way, you too can work out your own method for stimulating your child’s interest in the written word. It will be a success because of your great love for your child. And trust me, every second will be worth it
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Tips to Help Your Babysitter or Nanny Get Started
At Find A Babysitter.com.au, parents often ask us for tips about starting with a new babysitter or nanny. Here are our 10 simple tips for evening babysitting jobs:
1. House Tour: Conduct a brief tour of the house when the babysitter or nanny arrives. Include relevant door keys/locks, heating/cooling systems, baby monitor and telephone location.
2. Room Tour: Conduct a tour of the child’s room if relevant – including location of pyjamas, bedtime books/toys and nappy changing items (if required).
3. Facilities: Show your babysitter the tea, coffee, snacks, TV and bathroom facilities for the evening. Let her know what is allowed (e.g., rules for phone use, what she can eat) and not allowed (e.g., smoking, boyfriends).
4. Phone Numbers: Leave a list of phone numbers (your mobile phone, emergency contacts) and a completed ‘emergency information checklist’ (see resources on www.findababysitter.com.au)
5. Routine: Explain the steps of the bedtime routine – include the bed time, story time, tooth brushing, location of bottles, dummies and comfort toys.
6. Settling Strategies: Warn the babysitter if your child is likely to wake up during the evening. Tell her your settling strategies.
7. Cancellations: Never leave a sick child with a babysitter. Try to cancel as early as possible if you need to.
8. Timing: Tell the sitter the approximate time you expect to be home. If you are running late, call or SMS the sitter to advise her.
9. Payment: Prepare the correct change to pay the babysitter.
10. Safety: At the end of the evening, show the babysitter to her car for safety.
1. House Tour: Conduct a brief tour of the house when the babysitter or nanny arrives. Include relevant door keys/locks, heating/cooling systems, baby monitor and telephone location.
2. Room Tour: Conduct a tour of the child’s room if relevant – including location of pyjamas, bedtime books/toys and nappy changing items (if required).
3. Facilities: Show your babysitter the tea, coffee, snacks, TV and bathroom facilities for the evening. Let her know what is allowed (e.g., rules for phone use, what she can eat) and not allowed (e.g., smoking, boyfriends).
4. Phone Numbers: Leave a list of phone numbers (your mobile phone, emergency contacts) and a completed ‘emergency information checklist’ (see resources on www.findababysitter.com.au)
5. Routine: Explain the steps of the bedtime routine – include the bed time, story time, tooth brushing, location of bottles, dummies and comfort toys.
6. Settling Strategies: Warn the babysitter if your child is likely to wake up during the evening. Tell her your settling strategies.
7. Cancellations: Never leave a sick child with a babysitter. Try to cancel as early as possible if you need to.
8. Timing: Tell the sitter the approximate time you expect to be home. If you are running late, call or SMS the sitter to advise her.
9. Payment: Prepare the correct change to pay the babysitter.
10. Safety: At the end of the evening, show the babysitter to her car for safety.
8 Steps to Find a Super Sitter!
Finding the right babysitter or nanny can feel like hitting the jackpot. But you don’t have to take ‘potluck’ to find a great match for your family. By following these eight simple steps you can find your very own super sitter!
1. Write a List!
Write down the key features you need in a babysitter or nanny. Think about personality, gender, character traits, experience, availability, age, skills, hourly rate. Consider your children’s ages, stages and needs. Questions you might as yourself at this stage would be:
- do I need an experienced carer, or a person I can train myself?
- do I prefer to work with mature-aged carers, middle-aged or younger nannies?
- do I need this person for set hours, or do I need flexibility for any additional work?
- do I prefer a calm, quiet personality, or an energetic, upbeat person?
- do I want a person who is skilled in other areas? E.g., Music, sport, craft, cooking?
- do I need the one person for the role or can I split the job between two? (eg for before and after-school care)
- do I need the person to live nearby (for emergency calls) or am I happy to recruit further away for the right carer?
These questions are very simple, but give you a starting point to think about the things you are looking for. Prioritise your list of criteria from most important to least important and use this list to guide your recruitment process.
2. Capture Attention!
The first step in attracting applicants is writing a job advertisement. Write a creative ad that captures attention, so it stands out from the rest! This is particularly important when there is such a high demand for carers and unemployment is so low. Give reasons why a carer would enjoy working for your family. Mention the ages and stages of the children, the fun activities that are part of the role and the great aspects of your home environment. Importantly think about the well-known WIIFM “What Is In It For Me” factor! Are the hours great for a university student, leaving plenty of time to study? Is the location convenient to public transport, making it easy to get to and from work? Will you offer flexibility for holidays/study? My favourite job ad (posted by a parent on my site) was a beautiful children’s poem that stood alone as the job ad! It created interest was emotive and appealing. The ad received overwhelming interest and is just one example of a clever way to attract applicants.
3. Phone Screening
A phone screening is a great way to narrow down the list and prepare for a face-to-face interview. It will eliminate unsuitable candidates early on so you don’t waste your valuable time later. Start the phone call with some informal conversation to establish rapport. This will put the candidate at ease and allow a more natural flow of conversation. Remember to ask the ‘deal breaker’ questions during your phone interview. This way if a nanny does not meet one of your important criterion, then you can rule out this applicant immediately. The best prospects will stand out for being prepared for their phone interview, communicating well and providing information you’ve asked for. Based on a successful phone interview go ahead and set up the face-to-face meeting. Remind the candidate to bring copies of relevant documents (Qualifications, Drivers License, Police Check/Working with Children Check).
4. In-depth Interview
Schedule interviews with several of the final candidates. It is wise to keep your options open at this stage; you never know which nanny might present best at interview. Confirm the time and date with the carer one day before the interview. Prepare your list of questions and think about the key things you are looking for during the interview. Don’t be afraid to use a checklist to ensure you cover everything. A good way to find out how a carer will manage a certain situation is to ask how she has dealt with this previously. These are called behavioural questions and begin with “Tell me about a time…” or “Give me an example of a situation when you….”. E.g., “Tell me how you have managed a child’s separation anxiety in the past.” “Given me an example of a ‘routine day’ with a child you’ve cared for”. My favourite interview questions are listed in the box! (Sonia to insert a box on the page with 10 good questions I’ll provide)
5. Observe
Some of the best information is collected from observation. Remember to involve your child or children in the interview if possible! Step back and allow the nanny to interact with your child alone. This will give you invaluable information about how the nanny interacts with your child. Is she comfortable with your child? And vice versa? Does she communicate easily with children? Does she get down to the child’s level (literally!) to interact? You may even plan to take the interview to a more natural setting like a park or a backyard! This is a great way to allow more relaxed interaction to occur.
6. Credential Check
During the interview ask the nanny for copies of her resume and any other documents (police check, drivers license). Look through these as you ask questions. If she doesn’t have the documents with her ask for copies before you proceed any further with employment arrangements. It is much better to do this upfront than to worry about it later. This also gives you more information about how responsible and organized the applicant is in completing tasks as requested. The best babysitters I’ve met have arrived at the interview with all of the documents ready in a folio.
7. Reference Check
This is a very important step. Don’t be tempted to rely on written references alone. A phonecall to a referee takes only 5 minutes, but it provides some genuine information. Referees are always delighted to share knowledge with others, it is a great way to gain input from another parent. Ensure you speak to two referees who have employed the carer recently. Remember to ask about areas that are important to you, or that you were uncertain about post-interview. Questions you might like to ask include
- What was her role with you? (e.g., how many children / ages / duties)
- How long did she work for you? Why did she leave?
- What were her strengths and weaknesses as a carer?
- Would you employ her again and why/ why not?
These simple questions will elicit some great information to confirm your decision.
8. Listen to Your Instincts
Take note of any ‘red flags’ and act on them. If you have been unable to contact referees, ask the carer for more contact details and don’t proceed until you have done this. If an area is unsatisfactory (e.g., the carer has not given you a copy of the police check, if she is late for interviews, if she doesn’t perform well during a trial day) then give this feedback to her immediately. Give her the opportunity to improve, but if the problem persists then act upon this immediately. If you simply have a ‘gut feeling’ that the carer is not the right match for your children and home, then listen to your instincts. Early action is much better than an uncomfortable and difficult situation down the track. There are many other babysitters and nannies to choose from; new carers are looking for jobs every single day!
At the completion of these eight steps you should be confident in selecting the ideal carer for your family! The process is not difficult or complicated. It just requires a methodical approach. By recruiting well you can create a wonderful support network of trustworthy babysitters and nannies to call on!
1. Write a List!
Write down the key features you need in a babysitter or nanny. Think about personality, gender, character traits, experience, availability, age, skills, hourly rate. Consider your children’s ages, stages and needs. Questions you might as yourself at this stage would be:
- do I need an experienced carer, or a person I can train myself?
- do I prefer to work with mature-aged carers, middle-aged or younger nannies?
- do I need this person for set hours, or do I need flexibility for any additional work?
- do I prefer a calm, quiet personality, or an energetic, upbeat person?
- do I want a person who is skilled in other areas? E.g., Music, sport, craft, cooking?
- do I need the one person for the role or can I split the job between two? (eg for before and after-school care)
- do I need the person to live nearby (for emergency calls) or am I happy to recruit further away for the right carer?
These questions are very simple, but give you a starting point to think about the things you are looking for. Prioritise your list of criteria from most important to least important and use this list to guide your recruitment process.
2. Capture Attention!
The first step in attracting applicants is writing a job advertisement. Write a creative ad that captures attention, so it stands out from the rest! This is particularly important when there is such a high demand for carers and unemployment is so low. Give reasons why a carer would enjoy working for your family. Mention the ages and stages of the children, the fun activities that are part of the role and the great aspects of your home environment. Importantly think about the well-known WIIFM “What Is In It For Me” factor! Are the hours great for a university student, leaving plenty of time to study? Is the location convenient to public transport, making it easy to get to and from work? Will you offer flexibility for holidays/study? My favourite job ad (posted by a parent on my site) was a beautiful children’s poem that stood alone as the job ad! It created interest was emotive and appealing. The ad received overwhelming interest and is just one example of a clever way to attract applicants.
3. Phone Screening
A phone screening is a great way to narrow down the list and prepare for a face-to-face interview. It will eliminate unsuitable candidates early on so you don’t waste your valuable time later. Start the phone call with some informal conversation to establish rapport. This will put the candidate at ease and allow a more natural flow of conversation. Remember to ask the ‘deal breaker’ questions during your phone interview. This way if a nanny does not meet one of your important criterion, then you can rule out this applicant immediately. The best prospects will stand out for being prepared for their phone interview, communicating well and providing information you’ve asked for. Based on a successful phone interview go ahead and set up the face-to-face meeting. Remind the candidate to bring copies of relevant documents (Qualifications, Drivers License, Police Check/Working with Children Check).
4. In-depth Interview
Schedule interviews with several of the final candidates. It is wise to keep your options open at this stage; you never know which nanny might present best at interview. Confirm the time and date with the carer one day before the interview. Prepare your list of questions and think about the key things you are looking for during the interview. Don’t be afraid to use a checklist to ensure you cover everything. A good way to find out how a carer will manage a certain situation is to ask how she has dealt with this previously. These are called behavioural questions and begin with “Tell me about a time…” or “Give me an example of a situation when you….”. E.g., “Tell me how you have managed a child’s separation anxiety in the past.” “Given me an example of a ‘routine day’ with a child you’ve cared for”. My favourite interview questions are listed in the box! (Sonia to insert a box on the page with 10 good questions I’ll provide)
5. Observe
Some of the best information is collected from observation. Remember to involve your child or children in the interview if possible! Step back and allow the nanny to interact with your child alone. This will give you invaluable information about how the nanny interacts with your child. Is she comfortable with your child? And vice versa? Does she communicate easily with children? Does she get down to the child’s level (literally!) to interact? You may even plan to take the interview to a more natural setting like a park or a backyard! This is a great way to allow more relaxed interaction to occur.
6. Credential Check
During the interview ask the nanny for copies of her resume and any other documents (police check, drivers license). Look through these as you ask questions. If she doesn’t have the documents with her ask for copies before you proceed any further with employment arrangements. It is much better to do this upfront than to worry about it later. This also gives you more information about how responsible and organized the applicant is in completing tasks as requested. The best babysitters I’ve met have arrived at the interview with all of the documents ready in a folio.
7. Reference Check
This is a very important step. Don’t be tempted to rely on written references alone. A phonecall to a referee takes only 5 minutes, but it provides some genuine information. Referees are always delighted to share knowledge with others, it is a great way to gain input from another parent. Ensure you speak to two referees who have employed the carer recently. Remember to ask about areas that are important to you, or that you were uncertain about post-interview. Questions you might like to ask include
- What was her role with you? (e.g., how many children / ages / duties)
- How long did she work for you? Why did she leave?
- What were her strengths and weaknesses as a carer?
- Would you employ her again and why/ why not?
These simple questions will elicit some great information to confirm your decision.
8. Listen to Your Instincts
Take note of any ‘red flags’ and act on them. If you have been unable to contact referees, ask the carer for more contact details and don’t proceed until you have done this. If an area is unsatisfactory (e.g., the carer has not given you a copy of the police check, if she is late for interviews, if she doesn’t perform well during a trial day) then give this feedback to her immediately. Give her the opportunity to improve, but if the problem persists then act upon this immediately. If you simply have a ‘gut feeling’ that the carer is not the right match for your children and home, then listen to your instincts. Early action is much better than an uncomfortable and difficult situation down the track. There are many other babysitters and nannies to choose from; new carers are looking for jobs every single day!
At the completion of these eight steps you should be confident in selecting the ideal carer for your family! The process is not difficult or complicated. It just requires a methodical approach. By recruiting well you can create a wonderful support network of trustworthy babysitters and nannies to call on!
Baby Proofing for Newborns
The hospital bag is packed and waiting next to the door. The nursery is ready, diapers and powders on call near the changing table and tiny outfits neatly folded in the dresser. Baby will be here any day. Yet, it takes more than one sies and bottles to prepare for a newborn. Here are five things a parent should know before bringing baby home.
1. The Crib
Crib bedding sets often come with a fluffy comforter and matching bumper. Yet babies under the age of one can easily be suffocated by blankets, thick bumpers, and even plush toys. All baby needs is a tight-fitting sheet, a warm outfit, and a swaddling blanket. Some pediatricians recommend avoiding a bumper altogether since it is merely decorative. Also be sure that the crib bars are no more than 2 1/8 inches apart and that the mattress fits snugly inside the crib. When baby comes home, remember to always put him to sleep on his back.
2. The Changing Table
Invest in a changing table with protective railings at least several inches taller than the changing pad. The pad should have sturdy straps. Be sure to always strap baby onto the table while changing him. Keep a well stocked supply of diapers and wipes nearby so you won't have to step away for even a moment. Baby should never be left unattended on the table, as even the youngest infant can inadvertently and unexpectedly roll off.
3. Bottles
Purchase bottles that are BPA free. BPA is a chemical that may be linked to human growth and reproductive issues. Never microwave a bottle of formula, as microwaving bottles can lead to uneven heating and possibly burn baby's mouth. Wash bottles and nipples thoroughly after use and never use a bottle of formula that has been left out longer than 2 hours.
4. Bath
Infant seats are helpful when bathing baby, but don't be fooled into thinking it is a safety measure that will prevent all accidents. A baby must never be farther than arms reach while bathing and must be constantly supervised. Set your house's water heater to 120 degrees or less to prevent scalding, or install an anti-scald device. It is a good idea to get your towels, diapers, and other supplies ready before bath time.
5. Used Baby Equipment
Second-hand baby equipment is less expensive or even free, but it can also be dangerous. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission to be sure your used car seat, stroller, crib, or toys have not been recalled. Toys that are several decades old may contain lead paint and should be avoided. When it comes to car seats, never buy a used seat if you don't know its history. It may be unreliable if it has been in a crash. Don't by a seat that is more than 6 years old, doesn't have an instruction manual, or is missing parts. Although they can be expensive, a car seat is one baby item you should consider buying new.
1. The Crib
Crib bedding sets often come with a fluffy comforter and matching bumper. Yet babies under the age of one can easily be suffocated by blankets, thick bumpers, and even plush toys. All baby needs is a tight-fitting sheet, a warm outfit, and a swaddling blanket. Some pediatricians recommend avoiding a bumper altogether since it is merely decorative. Also be sure that the crib bars are no more than 2 1/8 inches apart and that the mattress fits snugly inside the crib. When baby comes home, remember to always put him to sleep on his back.
2. The Changing Table
Invest in a changing table with protective railings at least several inches taller than the changing pad. The pad should have sturdy straps. Be sure to always strap baby onto the table while changing him. Keep a well stocked supply of diapers and wipes nearby so you won't have to step away for even a moment. Baby should never be left unattended on the table, as even the youngest infant can inadvertently and unexpectedly roll off.
3. Bottles
Purchase bottles that are BPA free. BPA is a chemical that may be linked to human growth and reproductive issues. Never microwave a bottle of formula, as microwaving bottles can lead to uneven heating and possibly burn baby's mouth. Wash bottles and nipples thoroughly after use and never use a bottle of formula that has been left out longer than 2 hours.
4. Bath
Infant seats are helpful when bathing baby, but don't be fooled into thinking it is a safety measure that will prevent all accidents. A baby must never be farther than arms reach while bathing and must be constantly supervised. Set your house's water heater to 120 degrees or less to prevent scalding, or install an anti-scald device. It is a good idea to get your towels, diapers, and other supplies ready before bath time.
5. Used Baby Equipment
Second-hand baby equipment is less expensive or even free, but it can also be dangerous. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission to be sure your used car seat, stroller, crib, or toys have not been recalled. Toys that are several decades old may contain lead paint and should be avoided. When it comes to car seats, never buy a used seat if you don't know its history. It may be unreliable if it has been in a crash. Don't by a seat that is more than 6 years old, doesn't have an instruction manual, or is missing parts. Although they can be expensive, a car seat is one baby item you should consider buying new.
Baby Proofing for Toddlers
As soon as baby takes his first steps, the world suddenly seems a whole lot more accessible to him. Those interesting drapes, those colorful books on the shelf, and grandma's glass knick knacks on the coffee table are now within his reach. Raising a toddler is much different from raising a baby. Here are ten quick ideas to make a toddler's environment a safe place for him to learn and explore.
1. Hide all Cords
Exposed electrical cords and pull-strings for blinds are very tempting for toddlers. However, they put them at risk for electrocution or strangulation. Hide electrical cords and use a cord-shortener for your blinds.
2. Remove the Trash Can
Trash bins are treasure troves for small children and often contain items that could harm them. Keep your trash bin in a locked cabinet or in the garage.
3. Cover Electrical Sockets
Electrical socket covers are a necessity with small children. Kids really do stick small objects into sockets and may get shocked.
4. Lock up Medications and Cleaners
Never leave medications, cleaners, bath oils, nail polish remover, or beauty supplies on the counter. They may be poisonous when ingested. Keep these items in a high, locked cabinet.
5. Never Leave Coins or Small Objects on the Counter
When cleaning out your pockets of purse, don't leave coins, buttons, or other small items on the counter. They are choking hazards. One may be surprised how high little arms can reach to grab interesting objects off counters!
6. Bolt Bookcases to the Wall
Tall and heavy furniture should be bolted to the wall. Book cases and dressers are especially dangerous because children may climb them and they can tip. To prevent accidents, screw heavy furniture to the wall or purchase specifically designed straps to secure them.
7. Keep Knives, Glass, and Appliances up High
Sharp objects, glass, and small appliances should be stored in high, locked cabinets. Be especially wary of the contents of lower cabinets, even if they are latched. Your child may outsmart the latch. Never store cleaning chemicals in a floor-level cupboard.
8. Cushion Sharp Furniture Edges
While your toddler is first learning to walk, it may be wise to cushion sharp furniture edges. Corner guards and soft bumpers protect toddlers from hurting themselves on the pointed edges of low tables.
9. Use Gates and Doorknob Covers
If there are areas of the house that are not thoroughly childproofed, secure the doorway with a baby gate. Door knob covers are excellent ways to keep children out of rooms as well. It is advisable to put doorknob covers on any door leading outside so that little explorers cannot leave without supervision.
10. Install Baby Gates at the Top and Bottom of Stairs
Stairs are extremely dangerous for young toddlers, so install baby gates at the top and bottom. The type that screws into the wall is preferable, because pressure gates may be pushed over. Also, use railing guards if your balusters are more than 3 inches apart.
1. Hide all Cords
Exposed electrical cords and pull-strings for blinds are very tempting for toddlers. However, they put them at risk for electrocution or strangulation. Hide electrical cords and use a cord-shortener for your blinds.
2. Remove the Trash Can
Trash bins are treasure troves for small children and often contain items that could harm them. Keep your trash bin in a locked cabinet or in the garage.
3. Cover Electrical Sockets
Electrical socket covers are a necessity with small children. Kids really do stick small objects into sockets and may get shocked.
4. Lock up Medications and Cleaners
Never leave medications, cleaners, bath oils, nail polish remover, or beauty supplies on the counter. They may be poisonous when ingested. Keep these items in a high, locked cabinet.
5. Never Leave Coins or Small Objects on the Counter
When cleaning out your pockets of purse, don't leave coins, buttons, or other small items on the counter. They are choking hazards. One may be surprised how high little arms can reach to grab interesting objects off counters!
6. Bolt Bookcases to the Wall
Tall and heavy furniture should be bolted to the wall. Book cases and dressers are especially dangerous because children may climb them and they can tip. To prevent accidents, screw heavy furniture to the wall or purchase specifically designed straps to secure them.
7. Keep Knives, Glass, and Appliances up High
Sharp objects, glass, and small appliances should be stored in high, locked cabinets. Be especially wary of the contents of lower cabinets, even if they are latched. Your child may outsmart the latch. Never store cleaning chemicals in a floor-level cupboard.
8. Cushion Sharp Furniture Edges
While your toddler is first learning to walk, it may be wise to cushion sharp furniture edges. Corner guards and soft bumpers protect toddlers from hurting themselves on the pointed edges of low tables.
9. Use Gates and Doorknob Covers
If there are areas of the house that are not thoroughly childproofed, secure the doorway with a baby gate. Door knob covers are excellent ways to keep children out of rooms as well. It is advisable to put doorknob covers on any door leading outside so that little explorers cannot leave without supervision.
10. Install Baby Gates at the Top and Bottom of Stairs
Stairs are extremely dangerous for young toddlers, so install baby gates at the top and bottom. The type that screws into the wall is preferable, because pressure gates may be pushed over. Also, use railing guards if your balusters are more than 3 inches apart.
Common Household Dangers for Children
Tragic household accidents happen every day. Poisonings, drowning, and suffocation fill the evening news. No parent should ever have to deal with the heartbreak and regret that follows a preventable accident. Here are some common household dangers everyone should be aware of.
Medications
Pills look a lot like candy and liquid medications resemble juice. According to the CDC, 568,939 children were unintentionally exposed to pharmaceuticals between 2001 and 2003. While most of these cases were not deadly, they could have been. 95 percent of poisoning deaths in the US are due to medications. Medications must be stored in childproof containers in high, locked cabinets.
Cleaning Supplies
Household cleaning products may be harmful and even fatal to children if ingested. Liquid detergents and sprays are often brightly colored and resemble juice. Keep all cleaning chemicals out of reach, preferably up high and in a locked cupboard. Never leave cleaning supplies under the sink, even if it has a child safety latch.
Standing Water
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 350 children under the age of 5 drown each year in swimming pools. Yet it's not just pools that are dangerous. Any amount of standing water is hazardous to small children. Bathtubs, buckets, toilets, and hot tubs also present a drowning risk. Never leave standing water anywhere a child may get into it.
Drapery/ Blind Cords
Hanging cords can lead to strangulation. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recorded 160 strangulations involving window blinds between 1991 and 2000. Cords must be kept out of a child’s reach at all times.
Plastic Bags
Dry cleaning bags, garbage bags, and plastic grocery bags are all dangerous for small children and can lead to suffocation. Promptly dispose of or recycle plastic bags.
Latex Balloons
Children love playing with balloons. However, latex balloons can be a choking hazard and suffocation risk. Since 1973, at least 110 children have chocked to death on a balloon. If inhaled, a balloon completely blocks the airways. Don’t let a young child attempt to blow up a balloon, bite an inflated balloon, or chew on a deflated balloon.
Washing Machines
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 20,000 children under 15 needed emergency room care for washing machine related injuries between 1993 and 2000. Children may become trapped inside and should never be allowed to play near a washing machine.
Perfumes and Personal Care Items
Perfumes and personal care items like mouthwash are the number one source of poisoning reported to US poison control centers. Keep all hygiene supplies out of children's reach.
Driveway
Lack of supervision, even for a moment, can be dangerous. 116 children die in the US every year after being backed over in their own driveway. Never let children play in the driveway unsupervised, even for a moment.
Plants
Many common household plants are poisonous for children. These include butter cups, catnip plants, English Ivy, Hydrangea, Iris, Lily of the Valley, and many others. Be sure to research online to see if your houseplants are safe for children.
Jennifer D. Melville
For more information about all your baby proofing needs please visit Baby Proofing Directory. Baby Proofing Directory is the most comprehensive source for baby proofing professionals, pool fence installers, baby proofing product manufacturers, child safety products, and home safety tips to keep your toddler safe.
Medications
Pills look a lot like candy and liquid medications resemble juice. According to the CDC, 568,939 children were unintentionally exposed to pharmaceuticals between 2001 and 2003. While most of these cases were not deadly, they could have been. 95 percent of poisoning deaths in the US are due to medications. Medications must be stored in childproof containers in high, locked cabinets.
Cleaning Supplies
Household cleaning products may be harmful and even fatal to children if ingested. Liquid detergents and sprays are often brightly colored and resemble juice. Keep all cleaning chemicals out of reach, preferably up high and in a locked cupboard. Never leave cleaning supplies under the sink, even if it has a child safety latch.
Standing Water
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 350 children under the age of 5 drown each year in swimming pools. Yet it's not just pools that are dangerous. Any amount of standing water is hazardous to small children. Bathtubs, buckets, toilets, and hot tubs also present a drowning risk. Never leave standing water anywhere a child may get into it.
Drapery/ Blind Cords
Hanging cords can lead to strangulation. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recorded 160 strangulations involving window blinds between 1991 and 2000. Cords must be kept out of a child’s reach at all times.
Plastic Bags
Dry cleaning bags, garbage bags, and plastic grocery bags are all dangerous for small children and can lead to suffocation. Promptly dispose of or recycle plastic bags.
Latex Balloons
Children love playing with balloons. However, latex balloons can be a choking hazard and suffocation risk. Since 1973, at least 110 children have chocked to death on a balloon. If inhaled, a balloon completely blocks the airways. Don’t let a young child attempt to blow up a balloon, bite an inflated balloon, or chew on a deflated balloon.
Washing Machines
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 20,000 children under 15 needed emergency room care for washing machine related injuries between 1993 and 2000. Children may become trapped inside and should never be allowed to play near a washing machine.
Perfumes and Personal Care Items
Perfumes and personal care items like mouthwash are the number one source of poisoning reported to US poison control centers. Keep all hygiene supplies out of children's reach.
Driveway
Lack of supervision, even for a moment, can be dangerous. 116 children die in the US every year after being backed over in their own driveway. Never let children play in the driveway unsupervised, even for a moment.
Plants
Many common household plants are poisonous for children. These include butter cups, catnip plants, English Ivy, Hydrangea, Iris, Lily of the Valley, and many others. Be sure to research online to see if your houseplants are safe for children.
Jennifer D. Melville
For more information about all your baby proofing needs please visit Baby Proofing Directory. Baby Proofing Directory is the most comprehensive source for baby proofing professionals, pool fence installers, baby proofing product manufacturers, child safety products, and home safety tips to keep your toddler safe.
Moving is the Best Exercise for Babies
We know that exercise is important for our health as adults, but did you know that the same philosophy applies to babies? It is recommended that babies should work their muscles at least half-hour each day, although not necessarily all at once. Here are basic exercises that you can do with your baby, to stretch and tone the muscles:
Stretching
With your baby on his tummy, roll a ball in his direction so he has to extend his arms to grasp the ball and then roll it back to you. Alternately, you could sit facing each other with your feet bottoms touching and roll the ball back and forth, stretching in the process.
Standing
If your baby is trying to stand, encourage him by making him want to move towards you. Make sure you do this within the safety of a crib or on well-padded baby bedding. Play with a toy to get his attention and then re-position yourself on the other side of the crib or bed to get him to come to you. You can also make the stretching motion yourself and show him what it looks like when you stand up.
Crawling
Your infant's attempts to crawl are naturally going to help him exercise his little body since he will work hard to push himself forward with his arms and legs. Motivate him to move by clapping your hands and motioning your child to come towards you. You can also use a noise-making toy to grab his attention.
Jumping
Toddlers require a more advanced activity like jumping to help practice motor skills. You can make a line on your carpet using a folded piece of construction paper and help your baby hop from one side to the other. To add to the excitement, make up rhyming tunes as you go or listen to music.
Stretching
With your baby on his tummy, roll a ball in his direction so he has to extend his arms to grasp the ball and then roll it back to you. Alternately, you could sit facing each other with your feet bottoms touching and roll the ball back and forth, stretching in the process.
Standing
If your baby is trying to stand, encourage him by making him want to move towards you. Make sure you do this within the safety of a crib or on well-padded baby bedding. Play with a toy to get his attention and then re-position yourself on the other side of the crib or bed to get him to come to you. You can also make the stretching motion yourself and show him what it looks like when you stand up.
Crawling
Your infant's attempts to crawl are naturally going to help him exercise his little body since he will work hard to push himself forward with his arms and legs. Motivate him to move by clapping your hands and motioning your child to come towards you. You can also use a noise-making toy to grab his attention.
Jumping
Toddlers require a more advanced activity like jumping to help practice motor skills. You can make a line on your carpet using a folded piece of construction paper and help your baby hop from one side to the other. To add to the excitement, make up rhyming tunes as you go or listen to music.
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