Toddler Proofing

One of the easiest ways to develop a good discipline strategy with your baby is to make sure that wherever baby goes, the area is safe to explore and investigate. While some may tell you that there's no reason you can't just teach the child not to touch things that are dangerous or fragile, think about what that really means. You'd have to have your eye on your child every second, and follow behind them, moving them, warning them, essentially preventing them from doing the very thing they need to do most: learn. It may feel like you're teaching them to behave properly, but toddlers can't remember that many rules. When you baby proof, you simplify the environment to help prevent unnecessary negative interactions with your child. You can then focus on positive, encouraging words and actions, creating a space for your child to share her enthusiasm and discovery with you.

There are lots of things to think about for your baby proofed area, but the easiest way to do it is to just get down to your baby's eye level and look around. Sharp corners? Fragile or heavy things on shelves within reach? Even if your baby can't climb yet, think ahead as you look. Maybe he can't reach the top shelf, but can he get up onto the bottom one and reach up? Could he grab the table cloth and pull dinner down on his head? As your child grows you can adjust your methods to adapt to his new skills and height.