The Latest
October 10, 2024

Where Every Family Matters

Baby-proofing 101: Get On Baby’s Level

The idea of baby-proofing should bring you to your knees — literally.

Any online parenting group will tell you there are two main approaches to baby-proofing: make yourself a little crazy (and a little broke) by considering every eventuality and purchasing every product to prevent against it; or, take a more relaxed approach and outfit your home with basic baby-proofing supplies.

Then, let your child’s behavior dictate what else you’ll need — which means you have to get down on all fours. When you there, use common sense to secure potential problem spots. Here's a rundown of the more common household hazards and how to remove them from your infant's path:

Blind cords. Tie them up and out of your baby's reach.
Cabinets. Move all potentially poisonous and sharp things into locked cabinets or attach childproof safety latches.
Drawers. Keep them closed so your baby can't reach up and pull them out.
Electrical cords. Move cords out of your baby's reach so they can't be mouthed or pulled on.
Electrical outlets. Close them off with plastic safety plugs or with covers that snap shut when the outlet is not in use.
Sharp-edged tables. Cover edges with cushioned strips or padded guards to protect your crawler.
Stairs. Fasten gates with vertical slats or plastic meshwork instead of the old accordion-style gates.
Toilets. Buy toilet locks that will prevent your tot from opening the lid when curiosity takes hold.

Once you've made your home safe, and are aware of the risks to your child, it's important to just relax and let your little one explore. Only by being given the freedom to investigate his surroundings can your baby learn and grow!

BABYPROOFING SERVICES 

Ace Handyman Services (West Nashville)
866-848-5482

Campbell Home Repairs and Renovations (Bellevue)
866-213-4242

Home Interior Installation (Smyrna)
615-431-3076

Mr. Handyman (Nashville, Hendersonville)
866-589-0627

Nushys Cleaning Services (Hermitage)
815-321-7211

Professional Handyman (Green Hills)
615-418-4340

R.S. Handyman Services (West Nashville)
866-908-7803

About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 4-year-old Ezra and baby Norah.