When you first bring your newborn home from the hospital, it’s hard to imagine that this small, milk-obsessed cherub will soon be crawling (or indeed) running around your home, causing all sort of havoc. However, in but a few short months, as crazy as it sounds, you will need to start thinking about baby-proofing your home, as well as creating a safe play area for them to crawl and squirm to their hearts content.
In this blog we discuss some top tips to help you create a safe play zone for your little monster:
Right location
Before you start creating your play area make sure it is in the right place in your home. Preferably away from stairs, furniture and anything that may topple over, such as TVs on stands. You want the area as clear as possible so there is nothing that could hurt them or anything they would be able to climb onto. If there is no suitable area in your home, you may want to consider a travel cot, which will keep your little one safe and secure, and out of reach from any dangerous objects. If your child is lucky enough to be given their own playroom as their play space, then a baby gate is a great way to keep them from escaping the room unaccompanied, whilst not having to shut the door.
Baby Proof
Whatever location you choose for your play area, you will need to spend some time scouring the space, looking for anything that may need to be baby proofed. This includes covering plug sockets, removing anything that is hanging, such as blind cords, and anything small that may find its way into your little one’s mouth. The latter is especially important if you have slightly older children, as they will be used to playing with smaller toys, like Lego. Explain to them they cannot play with their ‘big kid’ toys in the same area as their little siblings.
Clean Up
Whilst there is nothing wrong with a bit of dirt, try to ensure the area is cleaned on a regular basis to avoid your little one picking up bits of dirt and mud and putting them in their mouth. A simple sweep and mop of the area regularly should be fine.
Soft Floor Surface
Especially for little ones who are just starting to find their feet, try to ensure that the floor is a soft as possible as there will be a lot of bumped bottoms. Wooden floors and socked feet can also cause lots of slipping and sliding, especially during the excitement of playtime. Carpeted floors are perfect, but if you have wooden or tiled floors then either add a rug or a foam floor tiles would work.
Toys
Once you have created the play area, it’s time for the fun part, filling it with toys! There are so many to choose from, but try to take the lead from your child and what they are into at the moment. You might also want to stagger the toys, by keeping some a hidden in a box, away from the play area, and swapping them every few weeks to keep your little one engaged in them.
For more information about creating a safe space for your baby or toddler to enjoy, make sure you look at our full range of home safety products we currently have available.
