Babyproof your holiday

By Published On: December 20th, 2012

The holidays are here! It’s finally time for some much-needed […]

The holidays are here! It’s finally time for some much-needed (and well-deserved) relaxation and quality time spent with friends and family. At last you can feel at ease and enjoy stress-free fun during this special time, right? Well, not so fast. This time of year can be particularly dangerous for you and your little one. Follow these tips for keeping both mom and baby safe during the winter season.
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Hang the greens
Most of us choose to celebrate the holidays with beautiful greenery in the middle of our living rooms. And usually those items (such as trees) are surrounded by presents for your newest addition. Be sure to keep a baby gate or fence around your tree and keep an eye on your crawler who’s likely to tug on the branches or ornaments. Remember, glass ornaments can shatter and some may even contain lead, which can be harmful if ingested. Keep poisonous plants such as mistletoe, poinsettias, and other dangerous decorations out of reach. And be mindful of electrical wires and outlets.
Check it out
It’s hard to keep up with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season especially when shopping malls and super markets can feel like an even bigger threat than rush hour traffic. If you can swing it, it’s probably best to leave your tot with family or a babysitter while you check-off items on your gift-buying list. If you plan on taking baby along during last-minute shopping, keep him in your arms or securely fastened in a baby carrier. If they’ve begun to take their first steps, don’t let go of their hand and always keep them in your site. Do keep in mind when shopping for your baby, the age recommendation on toys and be sure to avoid purchasing any with small parts that pose a choking hazard. Even some stuffed animals have small, hard eyes that can be removed and swallowed.
Let it snow
If you live in an area with snow and have an older baby, the festive season marks the beginning of your little one’s outside fun. Before taking them out to make their first snow angels, be sure to layer their clothing, but don’t overdo it! There is such a thing as too many layers. Thirty minutes is a good limit for playtime before bringing them in to thaw out. If you live in an area with little snow, still be wary of the cold temperatures for babies and expecting mothers, both of whom are sensitive to the drop in degrees.
Tame the tension
Let’s admit it—we all dread the stress of the holidays! Make sure to take time for yourself and enjoy a good book, take a warm bath, listen to music, sip hot pregnancy-safe tea, or even lie around and do absolutely nothing. Clearing your schedule of extra activities can help relieve unnecessary stress that in turn helps benefit you and baby.