Tips to Help Children Stay Safe This Holiday Season

The Holiday season is full of love, joy and excitement. As we deck the halls and travel to share presents and our presence alike, keep these safety tips in mind to help you and your child(ren) have a fun and safe holiday season.

Deck the Halls with Your Child’s Safety in Mind.

  • Children are curious and love to explore new things. Place decorations that are breakable or have small pieces up high and out of reach of little hands. This includes tree ornaments and those that may also have sharp hooks for hanging. Blocking access to the tree may also be an option for little ones that are starting to explore their surroundings.
  • If you are enjoying a real tree this season, don’t forget to water it regularly. The needles can dry out and pose a fire hazard. Also, place candles out of your child’s reach and alway blow them out before leaving the room. Don’t forget to test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.

Spread the Cheer Safely.

  • Choose the perfect toy by paying attention to the warning labels and age requirements. Check the toys to make sure they do not contain small parts or other potential choking hazards that may not be suitable for little ones.
  • Beware of toys that contain magnets or button batteries, if swallowed these items can cause life treating side effects.

Share your Presence this Holiday.

  • Follow the ABC’s of sleep and place your child down for sleep on a safe sleep surface even when traveling.
  • The homes you visit may not be “childproofed” and may have unlocked cabinets, access to stairs, exposed medications or other potential injury hazards. Invite visitors to your house instead and encourage them to place their purses, coats and other belongings, which may contain items such as medications that could pose a danger to your child, out of the reach.
  • Add the Poison Help Line Number to your phone and post a list of emergency numbers in your home for sitters to access.
  • With all the excitement, stay alert! Parking lots may be full of distracted drivers and distracted children. Always keep a hold of your child’s arm while walking near streets and in parking lots.

Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Children learn from our example. If you are tired and stressed, your child may be too. Even in the hustle and bustle continue to do your best to follow your child’s meal and sleep schedules so everyone can remain healthy and well-rested to better enjoy a less stressful holiday.

If you are looking for tips to help keep your little one well-rested this Holiday Season, check out The Ultimate Holiday Travel and Sleep Guide to ensure your little one stays on Santa’s Nice List this year!

For more safety tips check out my past blog posts!