As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to protect your child. Some injuries may be more common than others, and it is important that you take steps to attempt to prevent these from occurring.
Seeing as how toddlers seem to be interested in everything, you may feel like you have your work cut out for you. Typically, at this age, they do not understand the dangers that some actions or situations hold, so it is vital that you are constantly observing their environment, particularly when outside the home, to keep track of anything that may cause them harm.
Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause devastating injuries for anyone involved, especially children who have less body mass. You can keep them as safe as possible by using a good quality car seat, that will afford them some protection. During the colder weather, it is also important that you remove any jackets before strapping them in, as these can reduce the chances of the straps holding your little one in place should an accident occur. Injuries from a car accident can cause long term damage to small children, however, as they are not able to control the situation themselves, you would need to consider speaking to a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer on their behalf.
At the Park
Taking your 3 year old to play at the park can be a great way to let them burn off some of their seemingly limitless energy, and it gets you both some fresh air. While parks may be primarily covered in grass, there is still a risk of injury. At this age, taking a tumble is still to be expected, as they may not have the full dexterity to run without falling. Should this happen, it is normal for your child to have some bumps or scrapes. To prevent infection occurring, it is best to get the wound cleaned and dressed, as difficult as this might be with an upset toddler, before they resume playing.
Within the Home
As much as you try to make your home child-proof, they will always find something they shouldn’t or even new ways you had not thought of to get injured. You have probably already taken some precautions, such as stair gates, window locks, cupboard locks, and even cushioned the edge of tables. Something as simple as leaving your coffee too close to the edge can lead to scalding and even severe burns, meaning you will need to stay focussed on where your items are, and what your child is doing, at all times.
This, of course, includes during bath time. At this age, your child cannot safely bathe alone. Even a small amount of water can hold a drowning risk, so it is always best to stay with your child at all times, both to ensure they are clean and to prevent any harm.
Looking after your child’s safety is a full time job, and one that cannot be taken lightly. While smaller injuries are common, and part of a child learning about what they can do, you always need to look out for the risk of severe dangers in their environment.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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