Whether you are the first among your friends and family to have a child or the last, you will find that once your little bundle of joy is mobile, the world outside your home is not always the easiest or safest place for your young child to navigate. Visiting grandparents, aunts and uncles, friends, etc. can pose a bit of a challenge; childless homes often contain hazards that keep you hopping up during visits to prevent your little love from breaking low lying treasures or from injuring him- or herself.
While vigilant supervision during any visit is irreplaceable as an injury deterrent, there are a few things you can do to make life a bit easier on yourself (and your child)! Assuming you or those you are visiting are receptive to investing just 15 minutes, you could facilitate a more relaxed and enjoyable visit by creating a "safe zone" for your child to play in. Start by removing tiny, breakable, top-heavy, or sharp objects from reach (table tops, shelves, hearths, etc.), then try to arrange the furniture in the room such that you can see your child no matter where he or she may be. Be sure cords (electrical, blinds, decorative, etc.) are coiled up out of reach. Also, keep doors to laundry rooms, stairways, kitchens, supply closets, and bathrooms closed or gated-off from access during the visit.
To help create an additional layer of protection, invest in a Travel-Tot Childproofing Kit; the kit components (foam corner guards, outlet covers, pinch guards, etc.) can help prevent injury from some of the most common hazards present in living spaces! Best of all, the Kit's components go on with a strong, temporary, non-damaging adhesive that will not damage furniture or finishes; and Kit components can be reused! It is a quick, easy solution you can store in your car for wherever you go; or consider picking one up as a gift for your parents, in-laws, or other friends or family you visit with regularly!
Creating a safe play zone in a childless home may take a few minutes, but it will result in greater peace of mind for you and a more enjoyable visit for everyone! Safe and happy travels!
-Destination Mom
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