From the moment we discover we are expecting, our child’s safety becomes our top priority. We steer clear of unpasteurized cheese, track baby movements, and diligently take our prenatal vitamins. Once our little ones arrive, we schedule frequent doctor visits, ensure they sleep on their backs without any crib items, and invest in the best car seats, high chairs, and swings, meticulously checking for recalls and safety warnings.
Our commitment to keeping our babies safe stems from the overwhelming love we have for them, but it also comes with a constant stream of anxiety. We worry about choking hazards, allergic reactions, suffocation from blankets, sickness, and injuries. One of the most common fears is: What if they fall? As the Cleveland Clinic highlights, this concern is valid—falls are a leading cause of nonfatal injuries in children, particularly in those under one year old, who account for over 50% of such incidents.
That’s where a recent Instagram video from @milestones.and.motherhood comes in handy. KC, a physical therapist and mother of three young children, shares tips for teaching infants how to safely navigate off furniture. This is crucial since a fall, even from a low height, can have serious consequences due to their fragile skulls.
What’s remarkable about this video is that KC starts this training when her baby is just a few months old—far earlier than many parents would consider. The reality is that babies will inevitably find themselves perched on couches or chairs, and it only takes a moment for an accident to occur. As KC points out, “I know stairs & furniture safety can be intimidating… But what if we started teaching our babies the safe way as soon as they’re mobile?”
Her method is straightforward and resembles what many parents teach older children about stairs. “As soon as your little one is on the move, teach them to flip to their bellies and slide down off furniture,” she advises. Repetition is key; despite initial struggles, with consistent practice, babies can learn to safely navigate their environment.
In the video, KC demonstrates that dedication and consistency can lead to significant progress. She notes that although her six-month-old baby is completely reliant on her for safety, by 11 months, the child is almost proficient at safely getting down from furniture, with supervision still needed.
When asked about her motivation to share these safety tips, KC explained that many parents face long wait times for pediatric therapy services. By using her platform, she aims to empower and educate parents, demonstrating that children can learn safety skills while exploring their surroundings. She emphasizes the importance of teaching children how to handle situations, as accidents can happen when least expected.
Of course, parents must also take additional safety measures, such as anchoring furniture to walls and staying updated on CPR and emergency procedures. The Cleveland Clinic suggests watching for signs of serious injury after a fall, including loss of consciousness or unusual swelling.
Ultimately, every parent desires the same outcome: healthy, safe children who thrive. Teaching our little ones how to maneuver safely in their environments is a proactive step towards achieving that goal.
For more information on parenting and child safety, check out this related post on our blog and see what experts have to say at CDC’s Reproductive Health.
Search Queries
- how to teach babies to fall safely
- toddler furniture safety tips
- baby fall prevention strategies
- infant mobility safety tips
- teaching kids about falls
In summary, teaching babies how to navigate off furniture safely can significantly reduce the risks of falls and injuries. Starting early, with patience and consistency, can empower children as they explore their surroundings. Parents should also remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to create a safe environment for their little ones.