Judging by the traffic at the mall, the winter holiday season must be in full swing. I love the food, music, and other traditional festivities of Christmas and Hanukkah. My kids are now at the age that the holidays more manageable - gifts are smaller (but pricier), they play well together, and they help me decorate cookies without licking their fingers every three seconds. Nonetheless, I still fondly recall the days when they were babies. With the car loaded up - Pack 'n Play, swing, blankies, friends, and all the gifts - we would head out on our evening journey to a visit our families scattered throughout the Midwest. This was no small feat with four sets of grandparents, not to mention Chicago weather in December. Once at our destination, there was little rest for the road weary parents. The kids were wide awake from their five hour power nap in the car and the grandparents were chomping at the bit for the kids to open a gift even though it was about midnight local time. We knew from that point forward and until our return home, our children were spoiled and broken of all set routines. Oh the memories of holidays past!
Just the other day, I was discussing holiday plans with my sister-in-law. She is the mother to Harry, an almost 3-year-old-I-need-to touch-everything-that-is-breakable-or-dangerous boy and little 7-month-old Max, who can traverse the floor, caterpillar-style, with a world record pace. Our families are spread over a three state region, so inevitably there is travel involved this time of year. To help her get through the coming weeks of chaos, I tried to think of some sage advice. My tips included how to tactfully tell the grandmothers that babies do not NEED cookies, a few diversions to get a willful two-year-old to let go of grandma's tchotchke without dropping it after ineffectively, but calmly saying, "No, Don't Touch That!" a few hundred times, plus ways to simplify shopping with these perfect words "free shipping to anywhere in the US". Unfortunately the latter only works for gift giving, not receiving, and as we seasoned parents know...grandparents tend to buy the largest plastic playthings available, that once assembled cannot be undone. So my best advice to Crystal is to have a glass or three of wine, sit back and enjoy the show. She can relax in the quietness of her car on her trip home with the Little Tikes 6-in-1 Town Center Playhouse in her lap.
The winter holiday season presents unique situations when it comes to keeping children safe. There are special hazards inside and outside the home. Additionally, airline travel, hotels, visiting relatives in environments that may not be childproofed, disruption of normal routines and seasonal festivities mean that parents are often distracted. This recipe for disaster may leave little ones with less than optimum supervision. Here are some safety tips from The Baby Squad to help you make it through the holidays in one piece.
Trees - A Christmas tree is found in many homes during the holidays. It is important to have a fresh tree that is properly watered and placed away from fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters. If an artificial tree is used, look for a “Fire Resistant” label. Do not allow children to handle the tree lights. Not only is there an electrocution risk but many light strands contain lead in the plastic coverings. Avoid using bubble lights as they contain a chemical found in paint thinner. Never use candles on or around a tree. Check for faulty light strands and do not overload outlets or extension cords.
The winter holiday season presents unique situations when it comes to keeping children safe. There are special hazards inside and outside the home. Additionally, airline travel, hotels, visiting relatives in environments that may not be childproofed, disruption of normal routines and seasonal festivities mean that parents are often distracted. This recipe for disaster may leave little ones with less than optimum supervision. Here are some safety tips from The Baby Squad to help you make it through the holidays in one piece.
Trees - A Christmas tree is found in many homes during the holidays. It is important to have a fresh tree that is properly watered and placed away from fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters. If an artificial tree is used, look for a “Fire Resistant” label. Do not allow children to handle the tree lights. Not only is there an electrocution risk but many light strands contain lead in the plastic coverings. Avoid using bubble lights as they contain a chemical found in paint thinner. Never use candles on or around a tree. Check for faulty light strands and do not overload outlets or extension cords.
Decorations - Both the tree and home are often decorated with brightly colored and enticing objects. In homes with small children, it is best to avoid decorations that are small, sharp, and fragile. Antique and foreign-made ornaments may contain lead paint. Contrary to popular belief, the poinsettia is not a very poisonous plant, but holly and mistletoe are common holiday plants that are quite poisonous. Do not use them in homes with young children and pets. Avoid the use of decorative candles in houses with small children. Keep the Hanukkah menorah well out of the reach of children and pets. Keep a fire extinguisher handy. Check that smoke alarms are in working order.
Toys and Gifts - It is very important to select toys that are appropriate to a child’s age and developmental skills. Always read the instructions for a new toy. Toys with small parts and strings are choking hazards for young children. Discard wrappings, ribbons, boxes, packing materials, and plastic wrap immediately after opening gifts. Do not burn these materials in the fireplace as a flash fire and toxic fumes may result.
Toys and Gifts - It is very important to select toys that are appropriate to a child’s age and developmental skills. Always read the instructions for a new toy. Toys with small parts and strings are choking hazards for young children. Discard wrappings, ribbons, boxes, packing materials, and plastic wrap immediately after opening gifts. Do not burn these materials in the fireplace as a flash fire and toxic fumes may result.
Visiting - Most families either travel during the holidays or have visitors in their home. It is important to remember that other homes may not be childproofed like your own home. Grandparents may have medications that is not in a child proof container. There are many hazards present with crowds at parties. Supervision is key when in a new environment. Remember to travel with important phone numbers such as your child’s pediatrician and the National Poison Help Line, 1-800-222-1222. Slick roads and sidewalks can be perilous, especially for young children and adults carrying them. Keeps walkways clear of snow and ice. Slow down when driving in adverse weather. Always buckle up and secure children in an appropriate safety seat.
So deck your halls with any non-poisonous, non-breakable, lead-free, large, kid-friendly objects you have, and enjoy all that the holidays bring your way. The Baby Squad wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
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