Want to make sure your home is a safe space for your little one to explore? You may need to start earlier than you think! Many babies begin rolling, rocking, and scooting on their bellies between 6 to 9 months old! Making sure your baby has a safe space to explore will allow you to relax and enjoy this new movement milestone without stressing over their safety. Read on for 10 tips to keep your baby safe when starting to crawl.
Top Baby-Proofing Tips for Your Moving Baby:
- Soft Landing Spots: Your baby’s attempts to rock on their hands and knees or crawl might lead to a few tumbles. Create a soft landing by placing thick rugs or play mats in their play area.
- Secure the Area: Make sure the floor is clear of sharp objects and small items that could be a choking hazard. A clean, open space is a safe space.
- Corner Guards to the Rescue: As they become more mobile, babies might bump into furniture. Use corner guards on tables and cabinets to keep those little noggins safe.
- Close Supervision: Even with all the precautions, the best safety measure is your watchful eye. Keep your baby in sight during their playtime.
- Gate It Up: If you have stairs, now’s the time to install safety gates. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
- Cushion the Edges: Besides corners, consider padding any hard edges on furniture that your baby might encounter during their rocking escapades.
- Anchor Heavy Furniture: Ensure bookcases, dressers, and other heavy furniture are anchored to the wall to prevent any tipping accidents.
- Check for Loose Cords: Keep cords from blinds, electronics, and other gadgets out of reach. These can pose a strangulation hazard to curious little ones.
- Avoid Small Toys: Keep small toys that belong to older siblings out of the baby’s area. It's all about keeping those tiny, tempting (and potentially dangerous) objects out of reach.
- Regular Safety Checks: Make baby-proofing a regular task. As your baby grows and explores, you might need to update your safety measures.
In Conclusion:
As your baby rocks their way to the next big milestone, creating a safe environment is key. With these baby-proofing tips, you can ensure your little one’s exploration zone is as safe as possible, letting them wiggle and explore to their heart’s content!
