The school year is over, summer is here, and vacations have begun. June is dedicated to reducing the leading causes of injuries nationwide. In fact, it is recognized as National Safety Month.
Children at Home = Creative Minds Searching for Adventures
Unfortunately, most children’s accidents and injuries take place in homes, rather than at childcare centers. Our treasures are at risk of getting injured every day, so, keeping them safe is a big challenge. The good news is that we can take preventive measures to protect their lives. As an early childhood assessor, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of thousands of children at home daycare centers and childcare centers. Therefore, to help avoid tragic situations, I have compiled a list of some common dangers and precautions.
Danger of Suffocation
All small objects of 1 ¼ inch in diameter and 2 ½ inches long, or small round objects of 1 ¾ inch in diameter are a choking hazard for young children. Small objects such as staples, push pins, broken crayons, pieces of playdough, and some toys that have small pieces such as Mr. Potato Head, could be choking hazards as well.
That is why I recommend that you always read the recommendations of the manufacturer before giving your children a toy. A lot of toys include a choking hazard warning: “Small parts, not for children under three years.”
Danger of Poisoning
Sometimes, the chaos of our days distracts us and we inadvertently leave medications in our purses, kitchen cabinets, side tables, etc. within the reach of our children.
So be careful! Keep in mind that many medications can look like candies.
Also, some drinks resemble cleaning supplies. For example, beer and Pine-Sol are the same color as apple juice. Additionally, sports beverages come in different colors and could be associated with liquid soaps and other cleaning supplies. Shaving cream and whipped cream look alike as well, and alcohol and water are visually alike and could be difficult for children to differentiate. Therefore, to keep our children safe, make sure that you keep all these items in safe places or use a safety system on your cabinets and doors.
Strangulation Hazards
All blind cords, toys that include cords, belts, and elastic cords, including shoelaces, should be considered strangulation hazards. In a matter of seconds, your child could use them inappropriately.
Dangers of Drowning
Pools without protection can cause the death of our children. To prevent the longed-for summer from becoming a nightmare, place a fence around the pool and an alarm with motion sensors.
Never leave a child without direct supervision; video cameras cannot replace direct supervision.
In addition to these dangers, there are many additional child safety prevention recommendations that need to be addressed. The safety of children in cars cannot be overlooked.
Promoting the well-being of children is my passion, even more than my profession. This summer, I will be sharing with you more information about shaken baby syndrome (SBS), and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). I’ll also discuss universal issues that we all must be aware of which can lead to permanent damage, including older siblings, grandparents, and adults in charge of childcare.
Remember, the safety of our children is a priority and it is our responsibility to protect the lives of our most precious treasures. In this regard, wisdom tells us that it is better to prevent than to treat.
Have a happy and safe summer!
With love and gratitude,
Marielena
Updated June 2023
