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Many parents get caught out by a baby who suddenly learns to roll over - from the bed
on which his nappy's being changed, right onto the floor. And there’s the baby who
manages to tummy-shuffle before he can crawl, all the way to the top of the staircase. Try
to anticipate the next stage and add extra safety precautions before they are needed.
- After the first few weeks, it's safest to change your baby's nappy at floor level.
Babies learn to roll months before they can crawl. Never leave a baby unattended on a
changing mat on a bed or changing table.
- Never put a baby’s bouncing chair on a raised surface. The gentle kicking movements
of even the smallest baby can move the chair towards the edge.
- Fit a safety gate at the top and bottom of the stairs before your baby learns to crawl.
- A removable gate can be useful to block off rooms temporarily when necessary, for
instance when decorating.
- Safety locks or catches are vital for windows once your baby can crawl, as he will learn
to climb at about the same time and may be able to reach the window handle. Windows that
open by pushing outwards at the bottom are especially dangerous for children as they can
open them by leaning against them and then topple out.
- Use a non-slip mat in the bath to prevent your baby slipping over and never
leave a baby or toddler unattended in the bath, even for a minute.
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