Encourage his curiosity, but keep him safe and healthy! Here are a few points to help child-proof your home, to protect your child from illness and injury:
- Consider all the poisons, power outlets, sharp edges and possible hazards in your home and garden that your child can reach and interact with.
- Provide covers for power outlets. Keep wires and cables neatly stored.
- Don't leave potentially dangerous objects (anything sharp or that may be swallowed) within reach.
- Teach your child about doors, ovens, floor fans and other potential hazards. Show him how they work and emphasize that they are off-limits.
- If your home has a staircase, place the appropriate barriers until your child can manage the stairs unattended.
- Use non-toxic cleansers and paints.
- Empty dust and trash bins frequently; you don't want your child exploring there.
- Make sure you clean frequently and regularly. Your toddler will want to touch everything and often put things into his mouth to taste.
- Maintain a smoke-free home. Second-hand smoke increases the risk of ear and chest infections.
Keep in mind that no matter how much you prepare, children and germs will always find a way to meet. But don't worry; following good hygiene and healthy eating habits will go a long way to helping you child stay at his best!
Teach your child proper hand-washing.
Wash for at least 20 seconds using warm water and soap, and explain that you are washing away germs that can make him sick. Encourage washing hands before every meal, after using the toilet, and after playing outdoors or with pets.
Give him the right foods to keep him healthy and protected.
A healthy body means more resistance to germs. Feed him lots of fruit and vegetables for vitamins and minerals, and plenty of dairy products for calcium. Meat, poultry and seafood are good sources of protein, and grains or cereal products will provide him with enough carbohydrates for energy.
Choosing the right milk is essential.
Developed by the Nestle Research Center in Switzerland, Neslac Excella Gold provides the right nutrients for growth, with the added benefit of BL Bifidus and Prebio1. BL Bifidus is an active culture of friendly bacteria found in a child's intestine that guards against harmful bacteria. Prebio1 combines oligofructose and inulin, needed by friendly bacteria for growth.
Remember: it is natural for your child to want to learn by exploring, even if it means getting his hands dirty. With the right preparation and care, you can create a healthy environment for him to learn, while keeping him safe!
For more articles on nutrition and child development, please visit http://www.excellencebeginsyoung.com.my
Tags: family, children, parenting, child safety, kids, child development, child learning, safe environment, child hygiene