Toddler-Safe Playtime

A parent's number one job is to keep her child safe.  With a toddler in the family, this job requires planning, commitment, and constant supervision.  Though curiosity is a wonderful thing, remember that toddlers don't yet understand the concept of danger, so you must be their eyes and ears to keep them safe.  (Clearly convey safety rules and the need for constant supervision to all of your child care providers and teenage babysitters too.)  The very first step is to take a realistic look at your surroundings, with an eye toward your toddler's capabilities, reach, and interests.  Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind regarding toddler play and safety:

• Toddlers need constant adult supervision when they play indoors and outdoors.
• Remove or cover all furniture with sharp edges or corners.
• Remove small tables and chairs that can easily tip over.
• Keep older siblings' toys and games with small parts out of reach.
• Carefully supervise all play that involves water, including buckets and tubs of water.
• Keep safety latches on cabinets that store chemicals, cleaning supplies, or medicine.
• Install safety gates to protect your child from falls on stairs.
• Balloons pose a serious choking hazard; keep them away from toddlers.