Preventing injury and illness in small children

Small children are busy! They are gaining many new skills, and they feel more and more independent. They may be curious, want to explore the world around them, and can act without thinking. They overestimate what is in their control, and are often unaware of the consequences of their actions. This can lead to dangerous situations. It is up to the caring adults in their lives to do everything they can to prevent illness and injury.

You can help decrease any dangers by accepting that your child will go through active and curious phases; and by thinking proactively to avoid safety hazards. Remember, no one can watch a child’s every move or make a home 100% safe all the time. Try to find a balance for supervising your child, taking safety precautions, and allowing your child to explore. Learn all you can about child growth and development. Doing so can help you learn how to respond to and make a positive impact on how your child behaves.

To be proactive in preventing injury and illness, you can:

Set up rules and limits – and be consistent in enforcing them. This will help your child learn about dangers. Teach some basic safety rules and precautions. For example, teach your child to always use the car seat and that ovens and toasters can cause burns – they are HOT!

Practice healthy habits. Protect your child against illness and infection. For example, wash your hands often, keep toys clean and disinfected, and make sure your child is immunized.

Take safety measures around the home. For example, store poisonous products out of your child’s reach, and use safety covers on all electrical outlets

Taking care of yourself is a vital part of keeping your child safe. Most injuries to children happen when parents or caregivers are tired, hungry, or emotionally drained or are having relationship problems.

Other common causes of family stress include changes in daily routines, moving to a new house, or expecting another child. If you feel over-stressed, get help. Talk with your doctor or your child’s doctor, or see a counsellor. Find support from family and friends, or join a parenting group. Call 911 right away if you feel you are about to hurt yourself or your child.

Taking some proactive steps will help ensure your small child is able to explore the world, to learn and to develop while also remaining safe. For more information on health and safety for small children, please visit https://myhealth. alberta.ca

Amanda Poll is a Health Promotion Facilitator with Alberta Health Services. She can be reached via email, Amanda. Poll@ahs.ca