What should every parent learn about child proofing? Tips for parents on where to learn more about child proofing their home. "If you do nothing, just be aware of what the risks are because you are one step...
"If you do nothing, just be aware of what the risks are because you are one step ahead. Our mission statement is to reduce the number of injuries to children. That's through education and the effective use of products," says Mark Altman, baby proofing expert and the owner/founder of The Childproofer.
"Parents should read as much as they can on development. Dr. T. Berry Brazelton would be my number one suggestion. He has some wonderful books out there for new parents," says Altman.
"Learn about the different products that are out there," says Altman.
A couple of recommended websites include the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov and Consumer Reports magazine at www.consumerreports.org. Both websites are unbiased organizations that are not trying to sell products, but rather distribute information to consumers to help them make good, safe purchases. They both share information about product recalls and problems with certain products that might concern parents of young children.
Contacting a professional company that specializes in baby proofing is another strategy for parents.
"We offer an assessment where we come through the home and help parents identify what the risks are. From that, they can either eliminate it or use products to protect their child from it," says Altman of his baby proofing company.
Another approach is to ask that other group of experts: experienced parents.
"Talk to other parents and get inside information. From that you can formulate how you want to approach these issues," says Altman.
Besides child development books, find books on baby proofing from your local bookstore or online retailer of books, or the public library. While you must realize that baby product information becomes dated rather quickly, some of the basic information will be unchanging. For updates, check the websites listed above for recalls and the like.
The best tool in baby proofing is an informed and prepared parent. Educate yourself when presented with opportunities. Sometimes local service organizations hold child safety fairs where you can learn new things, gather up bundles of safety brochures, and sometimes gather some freebies. Even better, you might have a fun free family outing in the process. Also, local police departments often have special safety clinics on topics like child car seat checks to bike safety clinics for children. Take advantage of any opportunity to become a more informed and better prepared parent.
One of the best things a parent can do to child proof the family home is to take a lifesaving CPR class from the American Red Cross or other type organization. These classes are usually free or quite inexpensive yet priceless when considering the peace of mind they offer for the minimal cash investment. Get coloring books and brochures about CPR and safety from these or other organizations for your children, too. They might just save your life one day!
Finally, don't overlook the safety products all homes should have in place. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and cordless phones with emergency numbers already programmed in, are fairly lowcost items that have a high safety value for homes.
