So, I recently read an article where someone suggested it was a good idea to baby proof in your first trimester of pregnancy. I don't know about you, but I spent a good bit of time with my feet up and my head on a pillow because my body was adjusting to the changes it was experiencing. The truth is: Unless you're giving birth to a "super baby," he or she won't even begin to crawl until they're at least five to six months old. And, each baby gets into different types of trouble when they begin to move about, so although you may baby proof your house like it's Fort Knox, it could be completely unnecessary in the end!
If you must get started now, begin by crawling around at their level to see what they might get into. This can feel a little awkward if you're alone, so enlist the help of your spouse or friend because it can be quite entertaining. Plug the electrical outlets, place baby gates at the top and bottom of the staircase, secure all cleaning supplies and, if possible, put them up high so they're not even within reach of baby.
To begin adapting to the new situation, start by becoming conscious of potential baby hazards and developing new habits. For example, if there is a stack of newspapers piled up for recycling, ask yourself if it could be contained. How about putting the toilet seat down and closing the bathroom door behind you, or place lamps with electrical cords on a piece of furniture where you can tuck the cord behind.
From an organizing standpoint, you will want to ensure that the floor is fairly clear of any unnecessary things that baby can get into. If you foresee yourself having to tell the baby every few minutes, "no, don't touch that," then consider removing it. Now, don't completely un-decorate your home of things that you love and enjoy having around, just minimize what sits on the coffee table or an end table. Put your cherished items up high to avoid breakage or, more importantly, any harm to baby.
Each child is different. Early on, my oldest had a fascination with the stairs, whereas one day I found my little one completely unrolling the toilet paper—something I wasn't accustomed to with my firstborn. She had a good time! But if you must save the TP roll, get one of these: click here.
Always leave something for baby to get into. For example, a Tupperware® drawer—they love this! It will allow him or her the opportunity to get into something without you worrying that it could hurt them. As your child begins to move about, they'll show you what you need to baby proof!
Read the complete article on Introducing New Baby and a Pet.
The National Safety Council makes detailed recommendations about how to baby-proof in the following areas: suffocation and choking, falls and burn, and drowning.
Article: Baby proofing, twelve tips to help you protect your little one and your sanity! click here.
Find out which plants are potentially hazardous to your baby—click here.
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