Ten Safety Tips for your Preschooler

Your preschooler has probably heard quite a few “no’s” when it comes to things that may cause physical danger so far in their short lives. As they grow, there is more for them to learn in terms of keeping safe in this fast world around them. Safety at home and preschool are top concerns for preschooler caretakers and parents. What are some of the things you can do to keep your preschooler safe?

1. The most important thing...watch your preschooler! Preschoolers are extremely active in exploring the world around them and are generally very mobile and quick. Many of these things are more dangerous than their young minds understand. Who hasn’t turned around to notice their preschooler has just sped away to some unknown place? Parental supervision is of the utmost importance and is as essential now as it was when your preschooler was an infant.

2. Fire Safety - Your child isn’t too young to learn about fire safety. Teaching them about the sounds of the smoke detector and knowing what to do if they smell smoke or hear the alarm go off is a great thing to know at a young age.

3. Bike Safety - Most likely your preschooler is fascinated by riding a bike. Of course, a helmet is a must and safety pads on the elbows and knees are also important.

4. Learning about Strangers - Though it’s a sad reality, children must learn early on about strangers and safety. Schools usually have programs on educating youngsters on being cautious, but talking to them as a concerned parent is an important reinforcement.

5. Sun Safety - Use sunscreen on your preschooler if they will be out and exposed for an extended period of time. Cover all exposed skin with sunscreen!

6. Food Safety - Cut food into bitable pieces for your preschooler to prevent choking hazards. There should be no running with food in their mouth.

7. Car Safety - There are laws about child car safety. Follow the laws and make sure you talk to your preschooler about being properly buckled and sitting cooperatively in a car seat.

8. Playtime Safety - Climbing is a fascinating activity for preschoolers. If your preschooler climbs inappropriately on high things in your home, putting the proper discipline for your child early on is important. Lock up any windows or access areas to high locations in your home like windows and stairways. If you don’t mind your child climbing trees and such, make sure you’re watching them when they do so and make sure they have limits in this activity. This is also important for playground safety.

9. Kitchen Safety - You may want to teach your preschooler to cook along with you, but you also have to teach them about kitchen safety to prevent being burned or cut. If your child doesn’t understand these concepts readily, block off the kitchen area until they do.

10. Household Safety - Lock up or keep out of reach all cleaning supplies and medications. Post a poison control number in a visible and easy to access location. Also make sure electric cords and outlets are properly stowed away and covered.

By: Pia Chaparro