Grandparents’ traditional childcare techniques can pose risks.
Many of us have turned to our grandparents for childcare support, whether for regular help during work hours or for those rare evenings out. However, a recent study reveals that the outdated methods often preferred by grandparents can sometimes jeopardize our children’s safety.
Findings presented at the 2023 Pediatric Academics Societies meeting highlighted that many grandparents tend to stick with childcare practices they used decades ago. For instance, nearly one in four grandparents surveyed were unaware that infants should be placed on their backs to sleep. Today, it is common knowledge that putting babies to sleep on their stomachs or sides can significantly increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which remains the leading cause of death in infants under one year.
Moreover, a startling 44 percent of the grandparents surveyed believed that giving a sick child an ice bath is an effective way to reduce a fever. Although this may seem reasonable at first glance, Dr. Michael Roberts, the lead author of the study and a pediatric expert at City Children’s Hospital, warned that this practice could actually lead to hypothermia.
“We should not assume that grandparents, just because they have experience, are fully updated on modern childcare standards,” Dr. Roberts explained. He pointed out that many outdated beliefs, such as leaving wounds uncovered to “heal better,” persist among caregivers from previous generations.
In the past, parents commonly used rubbing alcohol to manage fevers and often relied on the old ‘forehead check’ rather than modern thermometers. While many of us survived these techniques, that doesn’t mean they are safe or appropriate today.
It’s essential for us as parents to educate our children’s grandparents about current safety practices. We can certainly appreciate the invaluable—and often complimentary—care that grandparents provide, but we must also prioritize our children’s safety. Speaking up may feel uncomfortable, especially when we think, “They’ve raised kids for decades, and I’ve just started,” but it’s crucial.
Ultimately, our children are our responsibility, regardless of who looks after them while we’re at work. Having those sometimes awkward discussions about safety practices is part of ensuring their well-being. Whether you are a grandparent or a parent, our shared love for our children should drive us to keep them safe.
For more information on related topics, check out this post on using a home insemination kit to explore pregnancy options. Additionally, for insights into safe lubricants, visit this resource. If you’re seeking support during your fertility journey, Mount Sinai offers excellent resources.
In summary, while grandparents may bring love and experience to childcare, it’s vital to ensure that their methods align with current safety standards to protect our children.