Safety in the Sun

  • Stay out of the sun when the rays are strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.)
  • Protect delicate skin by using trees, canopies, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen with a 15 or higher SPF (Sun Protection Factor).
  • If she does get burned, apply child first aid by putting cool, wet towels on the burn to soothe and heal.

Safety on the Run

  • Standing up is now a lot of fun, but never allow a child to stand in a high chair, moving car or shopping cart.
  • On slippery floors, let her walk in bare feet, slipper socks or rubber-soled shoes.

Safety for the Home

  • Old paint often has lead in it, and even a tiny amount can poison a child. Lead dangers especially threaten crawling babies who can pick up the dust or chips on their hands or toys, then puts those toys or his fingers in his mouth. "Cruisers" may chew on painted windowsills because lead paint tastes sweet. Be sure your walls are sealed with safe latex paint. Dust regularly and clean up paint chips immediately.

Safety on the Roam

  • Keep recliners closed. Children can be hurt or killed while climbing on open recliner chairs. They can snap shut while a child is crawling on them, throwing the child into  nearby coffee tables or even trapping babies between the footrest and chair. A good rule of safety for the home is to always keep recliner chairs in the closed, upright position when children are around.

Source: Parenting the First Year. University of Wisconsin-Extension. NCR Publication No 321.