The domestic risks are not the same for a child of 1 year, 3 years or 10 years. It also depends on the character of your “daredevil”, some being more reckless than others. Boys often tend to be more adventurous than girls. At these ages, they are also influenced by TV. You might as well set the limits right away: “No, you can’t be like Spiderman and climb all the furniture in the house, even if it’s to play! “
At each age its dangers …
During the first months of Baby’s life, lmum and dad’s supervision must be permanent. Even if you think that Pitchoun is well installed on his changing table, in his high chair, his stroller, his bassinet, his bath… you must not let your guard down! You must also have the reflex not to answer the phone at this time … From birth, do not hesitate to pronounce – kindly but surely – the word “prohibited”. It is important that your little one has limits, wherever he is (at home, with the nanny, with friends…).
From the first year of baby, parents must begin to explain to him, in simple words, what is allowed and what is not. He is always good to accompany your child in his discoveries and his willingness to do new things, taking into account his abilities. Your little one is growing up, take the opportunity to show him and explain the good gestures to adopt on a daily basis. He probably won’t take them in the first time, and that’s okay. It is up to you to be patient by explaining things to him again if necessary. Gradually, your little one will know how to spot a dangerous situation and be an actor of his own safety.
Up to 4 years, your intrepid little one is discovering everything that surrounds him. He loves to explore every nook and cranny of your home.
At 5 years, he enters a period of challenges and feels ready to face all dangers! You might as well prepare for it because you are not at the end of your surprises! Sometimes nothing seems to stop him: he rummages in closets, runs and climbs everywhere. He will “not even be afraid” to climb the living room table or jump off a chair! Not to mention the household products or matches which irresistibly attract him. The reason ? He is not aware of the danger and he will need time to learn what burns, what cuts … And, even when growing up, a child can remain clumsy (like some adults, moreover …).
Take the lead
It’s your turn explain to him what he can and should not do. Regardless of his age, make it clear to him. “No, you can’t run down the stairs like a racing car or play with lighters”. Each time, explain the reasons to him. Better a clear demonstration than a ban without explanation. Because it is well known: transgressing a prohibition is oddly tempting for a child! Even if Baby gains confidence, vigilance is always required. A tip, to identify possible risks for him: get up to him to understand concretely what he sees and can touch. It will then be easier for you to modify the environment and put dangerous products out of reach. Mom and Dad should also behave impeccably as much as possible. Remember, Baby loves to imitate the grown-ups.
Also help him to memorize the Emergency numbers while explaining to him the situations in which he must deal with them. Another precaution: when you ventilate your house, block the doors with a chair or stool to prevent them from slamming due to drafts. Your child’s fingers often have the unfortunate tendency to be in the wrong place at the wrong time!
Emergency numbers
15 SAMU
18 firefighters
112 European emergency number to get the rescue center closest to the call point
Poison centers
Angers: 02 41 48 21 21
Bordeaux: 05 56 96 40 80
Grenoble: 04 76 76 56 46 (hours and working days)
Small: 0 825 812 822
Lyon: 04 72 11 69 11
Marseille: 04 91 75 25 25
Nancy: 03 83 32 36 36
Orleans: 02 41 48 21 21
Paris: 01 40 05 48 48
Rennes: 02 99 59 22 22
Rouen: 02 35 88 44 00 (hours and working days)
Reims: 03 26 06 07 08 (hours and working days)
Strasbourg: 03 88 37 37 37
Toulouse: 05 61 77 74 47