The problem:  Falls represent a problem that just gets worse as a child ages and becomes more active.  Emergency rooms see far too many accidents involving newborns that fell while their parents were watching them. Newborns will start to move very early on and during that split second that a parent looks away, they can fall off a changing table, a bed or sofa and have a severe trauma.  While we cannot always be there or stop children from falling, we can reduce the incidents.

The solution:  How we handle and prevent falls is the key to reducing the serious injuries that can occur. The example of an infant that rolls over for the first time and falls from a changing table without any previous warning that they could even move that far. To help prevent the problem you will need to do more than just think you can always watch every movement. It only takes two seconds to reach for a diaper, but the fall needs just one second to occur. One thing we can do is plan by having all of the items needed within arm’s reach so we are not looking away for anything. Another is to either buy a changing table that has safety straps and a small ledge to help secure the baby. If a changing table is not available or used try using the floor instead of a sofa or standard height table. Through a thick blanket on the floor as a cushion and falling is one less thing to worry about.

As your child grows and begins to stand and walk, remember to move furniture with sharp corners out of their path. Cocktail tables are a leading cause of injuries among children. I have often recommended that parents literally crawl around the room where your child will be, so they can see things at the same level as their children.  Remember to also remove obstacles that can lead to tripping such as scatter rugs or small decorative objects.

If you live above the first floor make sure all windows are either securely locked or have safety guards in place. Use safety gates at the tops of stairs and make sure you check the width of railings to make certain that a tiny head can’t squeeze through.

Even after doing everything right, accidents will happen and kids will fall. Always keep a first aid kit handy and take a First Aid class so you know what to do and when to call for help. You do not want to be sitting there reading a first aid book while you child is in pain, take a class now.

The problem:  Food and toys are very common causes of danger for little children.  Tiny parts fit into tiny mouths and within seconds your child is choking.  Hard to swallow foods create another hazard.

The solution:  Following the warning labels on most toys is a good first step, but make sure that you also consider the size of your child.  Four year olds may be old enough to play with small objects based on warning labels, but is the child large enough and mature enough to understand what does and what does not go into their mouth?  Mom can avoid many problems by keeping small objects away from curious little hands. 

It is equally as important to consider hard to swallow foods, including raw carrots, peanuts, popcorn, hard candy and hot dogs which can get lodged in a young child’s throat.   Teach kids of all ages to take small bites and chew food thoroughly before swallowing.  Refrain from talking or giggling when food is in their mouths, and to sit upright while eating.

If something does get caught in your child’s throat, quick thinking and swift actions can save their life.  Administer short back slaps or perform the Heimlich maneuver to clear breathing passage ways.  The time to learn those simple techniques is now, before you need them.  While CPR and First Aid classes are always recommended for families with young children, at the very least check with your doctor or nurse and have them show you what you need to do.

• Many grocery stores have been improving their selection of products intended for Diabetics.  Most, if not all of the items available have no sugar and taste great.  Switching to sugar free candies and cookies can save calories, cavities and sugar highs.
• Party stores are another fun resource for picking up inexpensive party favors that can be used in place of candy. While everyone else is giving out undistinguishable bars of chocolate, you will be known for the house with the fun games. Just be careful of the age appropriateness and do not give to children that may swallow small parts.
• Make your own candy.  It is easier than you think to make candy and bake cookies that will be full of flavor and you get to control the amount of sugar.
• Allow the kids to scare up all of the candy they want, but require that they share part of their take with less fortunate kids or donate the candy to kids that couldn’t get out.  Your kids would have some candy and they would learn an important lesson in generosity.
• As above, let them have it all, but require that they divide it up over several months.  Staggering the treats will help them learn a valuable lesson in self control and saving for a rainy day.

Practice safety.  Whether the treats are healthy or not, make sure you check all of the loot to make sure there are no surprises or items that you would not want your child to have thrown in the bag.

Remember the holiday is not just for kids, so have some fun with it too.

Click link for more information:     http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33397420/ns/health-kids_and_parenting/from/ET/wid/11915773?GT1=31036

The biggest issue with the day-care facility mentioned in the article, was that it had several complaints over the years and families did not take the time to check them out.  We all assume the government agencies are doing their jobs, but there isn’t enough time or manpower for them to follow up on every facility.  Whether you choose to hire a nanny or use a day-care center, remember the safety of your child is at stake and if you are not comfortable don’t leave your child.  In the case of the day-care facility they had 20 prior complaints and still nothing was done.  If you have the luxury of being able to afford a nanny, then you can take action immediately if you believe the situation calls for it. 

Dedicated Domestics is a modern company with old fashioned ethics.  Just as we will not work with an applicant that we would not feel comfortable hiring ourselves to help our family, we also would not expect the families that we work with to leave their children with anyone they do not feel comfortable with.