Kids Ain't Cheap

But They Sure Are Worth It

5 Swimming Pool Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe

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Child in a swim ring reaching for a colorful ball in a pool
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Pools are the heart of summertime fun—but drowning is a silent danger that can happen in seconds. With the right precautions, you can swap anxiety for confidence every time your family heads for a swim.

Use these five expert‑backed swimming pool safety practices to protect your children in and around the water.

1. Supervise—Every Second

Nothing replaces focused, distraction-free adult supervision, often called “touch supervision.” Stay within arm’s length of young or inexperienced swimmers and keep your eyes on the water—no social media scrolling, texting, or novel-reading until everyone is out and dry.

  • Know CPR: Quick intervention matters. Take a local Red Cross or American Heart Association class and keep rescue equipment (a shepherd’s crook & life ring) poolside.
  • Designate a Water-Watcher: Hand an inexpensive wristband or lanyard to the on-duty adult; pass it off every 15 or 20 minutes so supervision stays fresh.
  • Use the 10/20 Rule: Scan the entire pool every 10 seconds and be able to reach any swimmer within 20 seconds.

Water safety groups like Safe Kids and Pool Safely call vigilant adult presence the single most effective way to prevent drowning.

2. Install a Four‑Sided Pool Barrier

A fence at least four feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates isolates the pool from the house and yard, blocking unsupervised access.

  • Inspect Quarterly: Test latches, search for loose posts, and oil hinges so the barrier stays dependable year-round.
  • Follow CPSC & ASTM Standards: Look for vertical slats no more than 4 inches apart and gates that swing outward, away from the pool.
  • Secure Climb-Points: Trim nearby bushes and relocate furniture kids could use for a boost.

3. Teach Kids to Avoid Drains and Suction Outlets

Pool drains can create powerful suction capable of trapping hair, jewelry, or small limbs.

  • Upgrade Hardware: Ensure your pool uses compliant, anti-entrapment drain covers that meet the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act. Ask a licensed pool tech to verify installation annually.
  • Explain in Kid Language: “Drains are like vacuum cleaners; we keep our distance so they can do their job safely.”
  • Point Out Safe Zones: Show where to play and where the drains sit so kids recognize the difference.

4. Add Door and Window Alarms

If doors or windows lead to the pool area, alarms give you an instant heads-up when someone opens them.

  • Layer Protection: Pair alarms with fencing and a pool cover; drowning prevention is strongest when multiple barriers back each other up.
  • Choose UL-Listed Alarms: Look for models tested under UL 2017 for pool safety. They should be loud enough (≥85 dB) to hear over music or conversation.
  • Enable Adult Bypass: Ensure alarms have a 30-second de-activation switch mounted out of children’s reach.
Children practicing swimming with kickboards in a pool
Image Source: Unsplash

5. Enroll Kids in Swim Lessons Early

Formal lessons build water confidence and lifesaving skills:

  • Practice Often: Reinforce classroom skills with supervised practice—short, frequent sessions beat occasional marathon swims.
  • Start at the Right Time: The American Academy of Pediatrics supports lessons as early as age 1 for most children, especially if a home pool is present.
  • Vet the Program: Look for Red Cross, YMCA, or Starfish Aquatics certification. Classes should cover floating, safe entry/exit, treading water, and getting to the wall.

Build Memories on a Foundation of Safety

Cannonballs, floating contests, sun‑soaked giggles—those moments flourish when safety leads the way. Supervision, barriers, alarms, drain awareness, and lessons create a comprehensive shield so the toughest poolside decision is popsicles or ice cream.

Have a go‑to pool rule that works for your family? Share it in the comments!

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Everything You Should Teach Your Kids About Fire Safety

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Child in a fire chief costume with real firefighters, symbolizing fire safety lessons.
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Fires can be terrifying—especially for children. In a crisis, instinct alone may not be enough; knowledge and preparation make all the difference.

Teaching fire safety early is crucial, equipping kids with the awareness and confidence to react appropriately in an emergency. Understanding how fires start, how to safely escape, and when to call for help can make a life-saving difference. The sooner kids learn, the more empowered they’ll be to protect themselves and others.

The following tips help turn safety lessons into everyday habits the whole family can practice and remember—creating a safer home and a well-prepared child.

1. Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

Every family needs two ways out of every room and a single meeting spot outside.

  • Draw it together. Use markers or stickers to trace windows and doors on a big sheet of paper; let kids color the “outside safe tree” or mailbox meeting point.
  • Name the exits aloud. As you tuck them in, ask: “If smoke came from the hall, which window would you use?”
  • Drill twice a year—day and night. Set a timer; aim to reach the meeting spot in under two minutes. Vary scenarios (blocked hallway, parent in another room) so problem‑solving becomes automatic.
  • Review older‑kid roles. Tweens can practice guiding younger siblings by holding hands and staying low.

For step‑by‑step planning templates, check the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) free resources.

2. Keep Children Three Feet Away from Hot Objects

Stovetops, space heaters, and even a steaming mug of cocoa can cause painful burns.

  • Add barriers. A sturdy safety gate around fireplaces keeps curious toddlers at bay without constant reminders.
  • Mark a “kid‑free zone.” Place bright painter’s tape three feet around ranges and portable heaters; remind little chefs to stand behind the line.
  • Narrate your moves. Say, “I’m turning pot handles inward so you can’t bump them,” to model caution.
  • Use visual timers. While soup simmers, set a sand timer kids can watch; when the sand runs out, they know ‘look, don’t touch’ time is over.

3. Fire Starters Are for Grown‑Ups Only

Matches and lighters should be stored up high and out of sight. Role‑play what to do if they ever find one—walk away and tell an adult. Reinforcing this message reduces the risk of child‑set fires.

4. Install and Test Smoke Alarms Regularly

Place alarms on every level and outside each bedroom. Test them monthly together so the sound is familiar, then choose a yearly “battery birthday” for replacements. You should replace the entire unit every ten years to ensure reliability.

A fire hose reel and sign, highlighting the need for early fire safety education.
Image Source: Unsplash

5. Fire Safety Education Works—Start Early

Preschool‑level programs that use songs, puppet shows, or picture books help kids remember key rules. Look for materials that encourage hands‑on practice and positive reinforcement rather than fear.

6. Teach Stop, Drop, and Roll (and When to Use It)

Make practice fun—count to three, then roll together like logs. Emphasize that this technique is only for clothing on fire, not every emergency.

7. Remind Kids Not to Hide During a Fire

Fear can send children under beds or into closets. Explain that hiding makes it hard for firefighters to help. Show pictures of firefighters in gear so the masks and suits look friendly, not scary.

8. Use Fire Safety Stories and Games

Interactive books and online games turn safety rules into memorable adventures. Try a “find the smoke alarm” scavenger hunt or craft a beaded bracelet spelling your home’s emergency number.

Keep Safety Simple and Ongoing

Fire safety shouldn’t be a one‑time lecture. Bring it up during ordinary moments: while cooking, hearing a siren, or replacing alarm batteries. A calm, age‑appropriate approach empowers kids without scaring them—building knowledge they’ll carry for life.

Have you talked about fire safety with your kids? Share your tips or questions in the comments—we’d love to hear what works in your home.

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Playground Dangers: 8 Pieces of Playground Equipment That Could Seriously Injure Your Child

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playground equipment
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Playgrounds are meant to be fun and safe spaces for kids to explore and burn off energy. But not all equipment on the playground is as safe as it seems. Every year, thousands of children are treated for injuries related to swings, slides, monkey bars, and more. While supervision is key, knowing which equipment poses the highest risks can help you prevent accidents. Some older or poorly maintained equipment can become even more dangerous over time. Here’s a list of eight playground features that could put your child at risk.

1. Monkey Bars

Monkey bars may look fun, but they’re a top source of playground-related injuries. Kids often fall from high distances while swinging or skipping bars. These falls can lead to broken arms, concussions, or even spinal injuries. Children under five are especially vulnerable due to their limited upper body strength. Wet or rusted bars can increase the risk of slipping. Even strong climbers are at risk if other children bump into them mid-swing.

2. Swings

Swings may seem harmless, but they’re one of the most injury-prone pieces of equipment. Kids can be hit by a moving swing if they walk too close. Falls from high swings can result in sprains, fractures, or worse. Improper seat design or chains that pinch skin also present hazards. Double swings, where two children ride together, can increase the chance of collisions. Always check the surrounding area to ensure it’s clear before letting your child use a swing.

3. Metal Slides

Metal slides can become scorching hot in the summer sun, causing serious burns. Even when not hot, slides still pose risks due to high speed and poor landing zones. Younger children often slide down too fast or tumble forward at the bottom. Clothing can catch on the edges or joints of older slides, increasing the chance of injury. Slides that are too tall or steep are particularly dangerous for toddlers. Look for slides with smooth transitions, guardrails, and shaded placement.

4. See-Saws (Teeter Totters)

See-saws can be fun, but they require careful coordination between children. A sudden dismount by one child can send the other crashing to the ground. Pinched fingers and tailbone injuries are common if children don’t hold on properly. Poor design or uneven weight between kids can throw off balance. Older wooden see-saws may have splinters or loose bolts. Younger children may not have the strength or awareness to use them safely.

5. Merry-Go-Rounds

Merry-go-rounds are among the most dangerous equipment due to their spinning motion and potential for ejection. Kids can fall off while it’s spinning or be dragged underneath if they lose grip. Rapid spinning by older children can overwhelm younger kids. Loose clothing or shoelaces can also get caught in the moving parts. The speed and momentum can cause serious head and limb injuries. If there’s no proper handhold or braking mechanism, the risk increases significantly.

6. Climbing Nets and Rope Structures

Climbing nets might appear safe due to their flexible nature, but they come with hidden dangers. Kids can easily slip through wide gaps and become tangled in ropes. Falls from high rope towers can lead to fractures or head trauma. Over time, ropes may fray, snap, or become loose if not properly maintained. Children’s feet can also get caught, causing twisted ankles or worse. Supervision is essential, especially for younger kids on tall or complicated rope structures.

7. Spring Riders

Spring riders look cute and harmless, but can be deceptive. These ride-on toys often have strong recoil that can throw smaller kids off. Older models with exposed springs can pinch fingers or catch clothing. If the base becomes unstable, the rider can tip over completely. Children sometimes attempt to stand or jump on them, increasing the danger. Injuries from falls or improper use are common with this equipment.

8. Tire Swings

Tire swings can spin and swing in unpredictable ways, increasing the risk of collision. They often hang low, creating a tripping hazard when not in use. Kids can hit support poles or other children while swinging. Rainwater inside the tire can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The surface of the tire can also become slippery or brittle over time. Falls and impact injuries are frequent with tire swings, especially on hard surfaces.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Playgrounds are a vital part of childhood, but they aren’t risk-free. Knowing which equipment poses the greatest danger helps you make smarter decisions for your child. Regularly inspect playgrounds for worn-out structures, sharp edges, or unsafe surfaces. Encourage safe play, set age-appropriate boundaries, and always supervise. The safest playground is one where fun and caution go hand in hand. A little awareness today can prevent a serious injury tomorrow.

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Think Your Child’s Car Seat Is Safe? These 7 Shocking Facts Say Otherwise

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car seat safety
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Every parent believes their child’s car seat is installed properly and is doing its job effectively. Yet studies show many parents unknowingly overlook critical safety details that could put their child at risk. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that nearly half of all car seats are incorrectly installed or misused. Before your next drive, consider these seven surprising facts that reveal hidden dangers lurking in your child’s car seat. Staying informed is trendy—and essential—for every responsible parent.

1. Improper Installation Is Extremely Common

You might think your car seat is perfectly installed, but the reality is shockingly different. NHTSA studies suggest approximately 46% of car seats are not installed correctly, dramatically reducing their effectiveness. Common errors include loose seat belts, incorrect harness adjustments, and wrong seat angles. Even minor mistakes compromise your child’s safety, increasing the risk of injury during a collision. Certified safety technicians can help verify proper installation, significantly improving car seat safety.

2. Secondhand Car Seats Are a Risky Choice

While thrifting is trendy for clothing or furniture, secondhand car seats pose significant hidden risks. Older seats could have unseen structural damage from previous accidents or recalls, drastically lowering their protective value. Additionally, car seats generally have expiration dates—usually between six and ten years from manufacture. Expired seats weaken over time due to plastic degradation and component wear, risking your child’s safety. It’s essential to know your seat’s exact history, including accidents and recalls, before trusting it. Purchasing new seats or thoroughly researching secondhand models is crucial for safety-conscious parents.

3. Winter Coats Compromise Harness Safety

Bundling up your child in a thick winter coat seems harmless but is actually dangerous when placed in a car seat. Heavy coats create slack in harness straps, making them appear snug when they’re actually too loose. In a collision, coats compress instantly, leaving dangerous slack and increasing injury risks. Experts recommend removing bulky outerwear before buckling your child into their seat. Instead, use blankets or coats placed over your child after the harness is securely tightened.

4. Harness Positioning Matters More Than You Think

Incorrect harness placement is surprisingly common yet critical for car seat effectiveness. Straps placed incorrectly, too loose, or twisted can significantly increase injury risk during accidents. Chest clips must always sit at armpit level, keeping the harness properly aligned over your child’s shoulders. For rear-facing seats, straps should be at or just below shoulder level; for forward-facing seats, they should be at or slightly above. Regularly double-checking harness positioning ensures optimal safety on every ride.

5. Accessories Might Be Dangerous

Cute car seat accessories—like strap covers, head supports, or hanging toys—may seem harmless but can seriously jeopardize safety. Many third-party products aren’t tested with your car seat, potentially interfering with harness effectiveness or seat stability. Accessories might shift during impact, loosen harnesses, or even injure your child directly. Experts advise sticking only to manufacturer-approved accessories specifically designed for your exact car seat model.

6. Booster Seats Are Often Misused

Transitioning your child to a booster seat too early or incorrectly is another common safety mistake. Booster seats rely on adult seat belts, meaning your child must be of the appropriate height and weight to safely use one. Incorrectly positioned seat belts cause severe injuries in collisions, especially if improperly placed across a child’s abdomen or neck. Ensure your child meets booster-seat age, weight, and height recommendations precisely before transitioning. Always verify seat belt positioning during every ride, maintaining correct belt placement across hips and shoulders. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines before making the switch.

7. Car Seat Recalls Are Surprisingly Frequent

Manufacturers issue recalls more often than many parents realize—frequently for severe safety defects or component failures. Unfortunately, many families unknowingly use recalled seats daily, putting their children at risk. To stay informed, register your car seat immediately upon purchase and regularly check recall databases. Online resources like NHTSA.gov offer recall search tools that provide timely safety alerts and updates.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Your child’s safety in the car depends entirely on your knowledge, vigilance, and regular checks. Staying informed about common car seat errors, expiration dates, harness safety, recalls, and risky accessories can dramatically improve your child’s safety every ride. Proper car seat use is about more than just strapping in—it requires continuous education, careful installation, and attention to detail. After all, the most important trend for parents today is always the safety and well-being of their precious little passengers.

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Cheap Ways to Childproof a Condominium

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Childproof a Condominium

When baby starts crawling and walking, you may feel like you don’t have enough eyes to keep track of him. Babies this age love getting into cabinets and putting things into their mouths. They love to explore. While these traits are good for babies’ growing knowledge, it can also put them in danger, sometimes mortal danger. However, there are cheap ways to childproof a condominium that will help keep your baby safe and help you maintain some control over his environment.

Cheap Ways to Childproof a Condominium

If you’re trying to save money or be frugal when childproofing, you’ll be happy to know you can start with the free fixes first.

Free Ways to Childproof

Consider Baby Safety Before You Buy

Childproof a Condominium

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

If you even remotely are considering having a child when you are condo shopping, the best thing you can do is find a child-friendly condo layout. That means finding a condo that doesn’t have a large balcony that over looks the living space. (Trying to childproof an upstairs railing can be a nightmare!) Likewise, open concept plans may be more difficult to childproof because you can use doorways to separate off areas.

Rearrange Your Cupboards

Once your child starts becoming more mobile, it’s time to rearrange your cupboards. In the lower cabinets, put things like pots and pans. If baby gets into these items, no harm done. You’ll want to move any glass containers or lids to higher shelves.

Put Up Dangerous Items

Many people keep cleaning chemicals under their kitchen sink. A better place for these might be in a higher cupboard so you don’t risk your child getting into them and accidentally getting poisoned. Automatic lighters and other potentially dangerous items should all be put up. Out of sight, out of mind.

Keep Furniture Away from Windows

The next free thing you can do is keep furniture away from high windows. If your child’s bedroom is on the second floor or higher, be sure to keep the bed and dresser away from the window. This step makes it harder for your child to inadvertently fall from the window since she has nothing to climb.

Tie Up Window Blind Cords

Window blind cords create a real danger for young children. In a study by The Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, researchers “found that over 26 years emergency departments treated almost 17,000 children for strangulation from window covering cords.  Of those cases, 271 children died” (Today.com).

Sure, you can buy expensive cord binders, but check out Pinterest for a way to make a free cord binder. All you need is a light piece of plastic that you probably were going to throw in recycling anyway and a pair of scissors. This idea is ingenious!

Bath Seat

Don’t feel the need to buy a special bath seat for when your little one takes a bath. Instead, place your child in a laundry basket in the tub when giving her a bath. She can stay seated in a smaller area, so there is less chance of slipping or falling.

Low-Cost Options

After you exhaust the free options, there are several low-cost ways to childproof your condo.

Tennis Balls on Sharp Corners

Little ones can often lose their balance when just learning to walk, so cut the side of a tennis ball and stick it on the sharp corners of tables and other items like the hearth of the fireplace.

Elastic on Handles

To keep cabinets with handles closed, put rubber bands around the handles. Double twist to make sure the doors stay securely closed.

If you have cabinets without handles, either install handles or you can buy inner door latches. These run about $1 a piece.

Plastic Container Around Power Cords

If you have a power strip you want to babyproof, you can take a cheap plastic tub, put the power strip inside, and cut a hole on the side for the cords. See full instructions and image on Pinterest.

Hairband Around the Toilet Paper Roll

Childproof a Condominium

Remember the fun age when toddlers delight in unrolling ALL the toilet paper on the roll? End that habit with a rubber band around the toilet paper roll.

Band-aids over Electrical Outlets

If it will be a few days before you can get to the store, you can cover electrical outlets with band-aids. However, your baby will likely figure this one out quickly, so eventually you’ll want to buy electrical outlet plug covers. These are very affordable at only $6 per 24 pack.

Door Knob Covers

There may be some rooms and closets that you just don’t want your child to get into unattended. For those rooms, consider door knob covers. These are easy for parents to use, but little ones usually can’t figure them out until at least the preschool years.

DIY Baby Gate

If there is a doorway you want to keep baby from going through, you can create a DIY baby gate. You’ll need two tension rods and fabric. True, you’ll have to invest some money into this project, but the overall cost is much cheaper than metal, store-bought baby gates. Plus, these are softer.

Air Vent Protection

If you have air vents on the floor, your child may be unable to resist dropping items down the slats. Prevent this by putting fabric tulle under or over the air vent. Air can still flow through unobstructed, but your child will no longer be able to put things through the cracks.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the cheap ways to childproof a condominium. While you won’t have to spend a fortune childproofing, you will likely need to buy some supplies. There are free childproofing fixes, but you’ll also probably have to buy some of the low-cost supplies to truly keep your child safe. But don’t worry, in a few years, childproofing will be a distant memory as your child gains more independence and learns what’s safe and what isn’t.

Read More

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Travelling with Kids: All You Need to Know

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travelling with kidsThe thought of travelling with kids can be a scary one but with a little bit of forward planning and organisation it needn’t be any more challenging than travelling alone.

The secret to successful travelling is to pick and choose holidays and destinations according to the needs of you and your children.  If you have very young children still in prams or pushchairs, a walking holiday may not be the best option for you.

Here are a few tips and hints to make your next family trip a memorable one:

Be safe

If you’re planning a road trip, then being safe is paramount. Check important documents are up to date and spend a little time checking you have the correct level of insurance cover.  It’s now quick and easy to compare Australian car insurance products using Internet comparison sites.

Take your time

In order to fully enjoy a holiday with kids in tow, you’ll need to take things a little slower than you would usually. Be realistic about how much you’ll be able to cram into your break, the less you plan, the more you’ll enjoy it.  By planning too much in advance you’ll feel restricted if you want to stay in one day, or the kids are tired.

Split chores

When traveling with partners, spouses or other families, it’s a good idea to split chores between you.  Take turns minding the children, preparing meals and driving so you all feel like you’ve had a proper ‘holiday’.

Allergy alert

If you’re travelling to a hotel that will be providing meals for you and your family, ring ahead to notify them about any allergies your children may have.  If they have severe allergies you may want to consider getting them a card written in the language you will be travelling to explaining what they’re allergic to.

Alternative venues

Gone are the days of couples only resorts or relaxing spa hotels.  Having children means changing priorities and looking at venues that cater to the needs of all your family.  Farm stays are gaining in popularity, as are hotels that offer arts and crafts and sporting facilities for little ones.

Kids clubs

Kids clubs are fantastic for giving you a couple of hours child-free relaxation time but you will want to check they’re not just sitting them in front of the TV.  You’re kids are on holiday too so will want to have fun.

Lightweight strollers

It’s worth investing in a lightweight stroller to take away with you.  Even if your toddler is independent enough to walk unaided, having a lightweight stroller with you means that you can stay out a little longer and enjoy a peaceful evening drink whilst your child has a sleep.  Sleeping children are surprisingly heavy!

Don’t forget the medicine

It’s a great idea to take a small emergency kit away with you.  This could include:

  • Liquid painkiller suitable for children
  • Bite and sting cream
  • Medicated nappy cream
  • Antihistamine medication

Keep a travel journal

Encourage your children to keep a travel journal.  Encourage them to fill it with tickets, leaflets and keepsakes from the areas you travel to.  This will supply them with hours of entertainment and provide them a lovely keepsake for years to come.

What other tips would you add?

Photo Credit: iosphere

Halloween Safety Tips

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jackolantern bucketHalloween should be spooky; but certainly not dangerous. It is our responsibility as parents to always keep our kids safe; so it is very important that we don’t let our guard down on Halloween, if anything — we need to amp it up. To avoid the many risks children face while trick-or-treating, it is imperative to use common sense. Here are some Halloween safety tips that will keep your kids safe and happy during this exciting holiday.

 

Before You Head Out

Here are some simple tips that you can check before you head out trick or treating:

Check Out Your Child’s Costume

Be sure that there is nothing dragging on the ground that they could trip on. If your child is wearing a mask, like the Monsters University Sulley Monster Mask, make sure they can see. If the holes are too small, you can make them larger by cutting them. This is very important; kids need to be able to see where they are going and when it’s dark out, it’s just that much more difficult. Make-up is an even better alternative to a mask; especially for little ones. Be sure to select make-up that is non-toxic and hypoallergenic.

Get Your Glow On

Put reflective tape on your child’s costume, have them carry glow sticks and/or wear glow bracelets or glow necklaces. This will help them to be more visible to motorists. You’ll also want to carry a flashlight to stay safe and visible; it also helps everyone to see where they are going, so hopefully no one will trip and fall.

Talk To Your Kids

Make sure you let your kids know what is expected of them while they are out trick-or-treating. They need to be aware that they should never enter a home, there should be no running, no playing in the street, they should only go to houses where the lights are on, and they should not eat any treats before you get home and inspect everything. Also, be sure they know to say “Trick-or-Treat” — and that “Thank you” is always appreciated.

Layer Up

If it’s a little chilly be sure to put layers under your kids’ costumes. This will keep them comfortable and warm during their fun night of trick-or-treating.

Plan to Accompany Your Children

If your kids are young enough to go trick-or-treating; then they are young enough to require adult supervision. I know it might not be very “cool” for a twelve year old to have Mom and Dad hanging out, but you can be with them without being right next to them. You can just hang back a bit but still keep a watchful eye (this should only be done with older children).

 

Trick-or-Treating Safety

Here’s what you need to know when you’re out and about:

Let the Light be your Guide

As I mentioned before, you’ll want to carry a flashlight to help light the way, but another important thing you should do is to only walk down well lit streets. Other lights that will guide you, are house lights. Only go to homes that have their porch lights on. People have their lights off for a reason so be respectful of that.

The More the Merrier

Trick-or-treat as a group. This keeps you safer for many reasons, but the main one is, its makes you all more visible. Visibility really is the main element to having a safe Halloween. When crossing the street be sure to cross at corners and use crosswalks.

Beware of Dog

Anytime you come in contact with an animal you don’t know, you must always use caution. It is especially important to keep this mind during Halloween. Costumes can be confusing and scary to animals – dogs especially – so it is essential that you and your children are aware of this so there aren’t any unfortunate encounters.

Here are a Few More Quick Tips:

  • Do not go inside anyone’s house
  • Carry a cell phone for emergencies
  • Watch where you step
  • Don’t stand to close to Jack-o-Lanterns, since they usually contain a lit candle

 

Halloween Safety Tips at Home

Once you get home be sure to inspect all of the items your children have received. This means looking for any candy that may have been tampered with. Remove all choking hazards for little ones. This is especially important for parents with children under age 6. You’ll also want to monitor the candy intake; you don’t want to have to deal with an upset tummy later on. You might let the kids select a few pieces and then put the rest up. Some parents like to let their children trade in their candy for something else, like a special toy, gift card, or money. Some dentist offices offer this as well.

If you’ll be handing out candy, be sure that your pathways are clear that there isn’t anything trick-or-treaters might hurt themselves on. It’s also a good idea to lock up your pets so they don’t run out the door. Even the best behaved animals can get a little spooked, so just play it safe for everyone’s sake.

Do you have any additional Halloween safety tips?

How to Teach Kids to Stay Safe Without Scaring Them

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Stranger Safety DVD for teaching kids 4 & up to stay safeFor the past year or so I have been trying to figure out how to teach my boys about stranger safety. In preschool last year they learned all about fire safety and how to call 911. Their teacher explained that if something happened to me – like I fell and hit my head in the shower – they would need to call 911 to get help. I was really glad they talked about it because I hadn’t really thought about teaching them any of that. For the next few weeks following their safety lesson, the boys would ask if I was going to fall and hit my head every time I got into the shower. So, even though I knew they need to learn how to stay safe, I didn’t want to scare them. However, I also realized that if something happened to them because I didn’t properly educate them on how to be safe — well, I would never be able to forgive myself.

Stranger Safety

I now realize that it is imperative that they learn about stranger safety – whether it scares them or not – so I decided to bite the bullet and just do it. But how? How do I explain the difference between strangers, people they know and the handful of adults who Chris and I would entrust them with? This is a tough concept for little ones, so I went in search of something that might help me to at least start the conversation.

The first item I had was a Winnie the Pooh book called Safe at Home with Pooh. I actually didn’t buy this book with the intention of teaching the boys stranger safety. I just bought a stack of with books from the consignment store and it wasn’t until they asked me to read it that I realized what the book was about. It teaches kids not to talk to strangers and never to open the door to strangers (something I have mentioned that I don’t even do). The book was easy for them to understand and it helped get the conversation started about strangers and being safe.

As I was researching materials that might help me teach the boys about stranger safety I happened upon the website: The Safe Side. I was delighted to see two familiar faces smiling back at me. The first was John Walsh, the host of America’s Most Wanted and one of the founders and key supporters of  the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The other face I recognized was Julie Clark — the creator of Baby Einstein. These are two people who I believe to have the best interest of children in mind and the experience to create a program that would give children the tools they need to stay safe and to do it in an entertaining way.

Checking it Out

Of course, I decided to watch the program before the boys did just to make sure I thought it was age appropriate for them. I was relieved to see that it was highly entertaining and really great at teaching kids about “Don’t Knows” folks who are strangers and “Kind-of Knows” pretty much everyone else your child might interact with such as coaches, teachers, neighbors, family friends, doctors, librarians, etc.
>N was actually very reluctant to watch the video, which made me hesitate a bit but I knew we really just needed to watch it and start discussing how to stay safe. I told him that if he thought it was too scary I would turn it off. Since I watched it before they did, I knew that they would think that “Safe Side Superchick” was really funny. She provides really important information and does so in a fun and completely goofy way. The boys both loved it and they actually asked to watch it again today. We had fun not only discussing what they should do when certain situations happen but acting it out as well.

Another thing the video recommends is that you pick three adults who you completely trust with the well being of your child and put them on a list. This way if something happens and you cannot get to your child, they will know it is okay to go with one of these people but no one else! Then there is a clear distinction of who it is okay to go with unless you (their Safe Side Adult) tell them it’s okay or they ask permission first.

Internet Safety

Internet Safety DVD for teaching kids 6 & up to stay safeThey even have a Safe Side video all about internet safety. This isn’t really an issue for us right now because the boys don’t use the computer but I will probably have them watch this once they are a little older. The only thing is it might be outdated because it’s from 2006 but I’m sure the basic tips are still relevant.

So my plan is to keep talking about how to stay safe, letting them know that they can come to their Dad or I if something doesn’t seem right or makes them uncomfortable and that it is okay to yell fight, hit, kick and whatever else they need to do if someone ever grabbed them. By teaching them about safety I hope that this will help the boys to be prepared if God forbid something did happen!

So what have you done to teach your kids about stranger safety? What books, programs or websites have you used? I’d love to hear what others have done or recommend!

Press Release: Child Proofing Your Home Reduces Risk by 70%

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International Association for Child SafetyIn the wake of a new study that shows a clear link between babyproofing one’s home and a reduction in injuries to children, the International Association for Child Safety is reminding parents that a professional babyproofer can help them choose and install the appropriate products.

The study by researchers at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center looked at two groups of families with newborns. One set had properly installed and maintained child safety devices in their homes. After two years of follow-up, babies and toddlers living in these homes had 70 percent fewer injuries requiring medical attention than did those in a control group with no child safety devices installed in the home.

Study shows Childproofing reduces child injuries by 70%

“The home environment is the most common location of injury for younger children,” said the study’s lead investigator, Dr. Kieran J. Phelan, in a medical center news release. “However, parents may not have the time, training or resources to obtain and install the best safety products.”

The International Association for Child Safety (IAFCS), a worldwide network of child safety professionals and babyproofers, has helped parents and caregivers do just that for more than 15 years. IAFCS has the first and only certification program for Certified Professional Childproofers®.

“This study just confirms what our members have known for some time – proper installation of appropriate safety devices can prevent injuries,” said Colleen Driscoll, Executive Director of the IAFCS. “Our members are trained and experienced in identifying hazards and installing top quality safety devices for even the most difficult-to-solve home hazards.”

Many parents need help choosing and installing child safety products, notes Driscoll. “IAFCS members are expert childproofers and are able to help make your home a safe place for your little one.”

Regardless of whether parents decide to use a professional childproofer, parents can reduce the risk of injuries in their home by following these safety tips provided by IAFCS. For more tips or to find a child safety professional in your area, visit iafcs.org.

Did you child proof your home when your kids were born?

Choosing a Crib for Your Baby

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A crib is one of the things you need to buy when expecting a baby

Photo on CAPL

There are many baby items that are perfectly safe to buy second hand. Unfortunately there are a couple of items, such as a car seat and a crib, that are safer for baby if bought brand new. New cribs can be very pricey but you do not need to spend a fortune to keep your baby safe during sleep time. The least expensive crib on the market can be perfectly safe for baby as long as it meets the government safety requirements and is assembled correctly.

If you do purchase secondhand, make sure it is from someone you know and trust. Regardless of where you purchase, it is important, for the safety of your baby, to always keep an eye on current baby product recalls at www.recalls.gov (in the United States) and http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/home-accueil-eng.jsp (in Canada). In my experience, most of these recalls are easily fixable and often the company ships you a small repair kit, free of charge to you, complete with instructions. It is only in more drastic cases where you would actually have to discontinue use of the product you have purchased. When buying new, many baby items come with a registration card that you mail to the company and they will mail information concerning recalls directly to your home.

Statistics show that although 4 million babies are born in the United States each year, only 1 million cribs are purchased. In the United States, 26 infants die each year and another 11,500 are hospitalized in crib related accidents. Unfortunately, many of these accidents occurred in older-style cribs that do not meet current government safety regulations. In the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Commission states that only cribs made after 1991 are likely to meet all current safety standards. In Canada, all cribs made after September 1986 are likely to meet all current safety standards. Health Canada states, “Using a crib manufactured before September 1986 poses potential hazards that may result in serious injuries, including death.”

Crib Safety Standards

Crib safety standards in both the United States and Canada include:

  • Crib slats must not be more than 2 3/8 inches apart so as to prevent baby from slipping through them. You should not be able to pass a pop can through the slats. If you can, then the slats are not properly spaced.
  • There should be no broken or missing crib slats or any other missing or broken parts of the crib.
  • Hardware should be properly installed on both the crib and the mattress support, according to instructions. Only use original hardware for both. Hardware should not be loose or damaged.
  • The crib mattress must fit snugly inside the crib with no more 1 3/16” (two fingers) width between the mattress and the sides of the crib. If the mattress is not a tight fit, the baby could become wedged into this space and become trapped.
  • There should be no decorative cutouts in any part of the crib, including the headboard and footboard, where your baby’s head or body become trapped.
  • Corner posts should be no higher than 1/16” (US), 1/8” (Canada) above the end panels of the crib. Your baby’s clothing can hang off of them if they are any higher. This includes decorative knobs and posts.
  • The crib mattress support should always be set so that your baby cannot climb out of the crib. You can use the highest setting for newborns but as soon as your baby is able to push himself to his knees you need to set it to the middle setting (usually around 4 – 6 months) and when she is able to pull herself to standing, the crib setting should be at its lowest setting (usually between 8 – 12 months).

For more detailed safety standards please visit http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/regsumcrib.pdf (USA) and http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/H46-2-03-332E.pdf (Canada).

Crib Types

The standard crib is by far the most popular type of crib. It features stationary sides, dual drop sides or single drop sides. For the safety of your baby, however, it is recommended to always keep the sides of the crib to the highest setting. In fact, many crib manufacturers are now doing away with drop down sides. So if you are buying a new crib, it is best to buy one with stationary sides, even though drop down sides are very convenient. If you are buying or using an older crib that has drop down sides, it is best to leave the sides up at their highest setting at all times.

Convertible cribs offer all the features of a standard crib but convert into a toddler bed. Some even then convert into a double bed. This means that you pay one time for a bed that will last your baby well into his or her adulthood!

Other types of cribs available on the market include round cribs, canopy cribs and portable cribs. Round cribs are fairly new to the market. Canopy cribs are available in standard rectangular shapes or as a round crib. Portable cribs are about one-third smaller than a standard crib and fold up easily for travel.

Whatever crib you choose for your baby, just remember to keep safety at the top of your list!

What type of crib did you use for your baby? Where did you get yours?