GRANDPARENTS - TIPS ON CHILDPROOFING YOUR HOME

Many parents look forward to being grandparents and to be a bit bolder, they sometimes outright come out and ask their married children, "When are you going to make me a grandfather/mother?" Yes, some of them do and when that day arrive, they are extremely happy to see their new grand.

On occasions, I have heard adult children saying of their Dads and Mom "when I was growing up, they would never let me get away with that, but they let their grandchildren do whatever they want."

Yes, grown children are in shock when their own parents allows their offspring to have an extra candy, or play outside a little longer or even give them a cooler gift than they did, for a special occasion.

However, because of the age difference, grandparents may not always be able to "keep up" with the younger ones pace. Therefore, keeping them away from harm is also in their forethought and with this in mind, these home safety tips are put forth.

Within Reach

Although you will need everything within your home to be close at hand, they may also be close enough for the little ones to empty, spill or simple play with. Therefore, when they are visiting, do not forget to keep these low storing things from within their reach.

Medication

As we become older, we may find ourselves using medication to help with our ailments and if this is the case with you, do not forget to keep all of the medications out of their reach.

Household Cleaners

You may usually keep the household cleaning items on the lower self in the cupboard, but sometimes you may not always replace them immediately after using them. Therefore, when the little ones are visiting, do a quick check to make sure that all of the cleaners are in their right place.

Electrical Outlets

Secure the electrical outlets with child safety locks because, for "some" reason, they are attracted to these things. Perhaps you would have remembered from your own children that they usually put, pencils, pens, crayons and their fingers into them.

Gates

If they will be spending a lot of time at your home, you can consider putting some safety gates at the stairways.

Blinds

Keep blinds and their cords out of their reach because they can become entangled or suffocate in them or strangled on the cord.

When you are using cords, you can use short ones or double them up to prevent them from hanging.

Locks

Put appropriate locks on all your doors. You may think that the doors are secure but they may not be. Children are smarter than we usually give them credit for and they are sometimes physically strong than they may look.