#AtoZChallenge- C is for 'Child Proofing'

Up until recently we have usually had mothers, nannies and  grandparents serve as child 'proofers'  in this country. They quietly follow the little guys around and reduce any risk of danger.  

Then there is that high-pitched- mad-woman scream that will stop any toddler in its tracks. It always works. 

But today, I wonder if any of us have this kind of patience. And there are always those irresistible Facebook updates and WhatsApp messages to catch up on. So maybe child proofing may be a good idea after all.

Source: Pinterest.com

You don't need to worry about infants. All they do is lie there, stare at the ceiling, gurgle and look angelic. But by the time they start crawling they suddenly transform into little gremlins exploring their new found territory. 

What's interesting is that their mischief is not really mischief but the most organic way of seeing this new world (at a height of about 2 feet from the ground) and even though half the time you may be screaming 'No!' or 'Don't!', it makes you wonder about this magnificent thing called 'discovery'. You also suddenly discover how home sweet home is a potential danger zone!


Corners are sharp. Socket holes are just the right size for their little fingers. The toilet bowl is of optimum height for a quick wash. Anything pea sized fits into the nostril. Wires can strangle. Sharpest things appear first when a drawer is opened...
 
Personally, I think the best way to child proof the house is to dress them in a base ball helmet with soft padding and a sleep suit made of bubble wrap. And then keep them in the play pen. 

OK maybe that is too much. 

There's a ton of stuff you can get from stores. But here are few easy things to do...

• Limit the space. Lock/close the rooms that are not required.
• Lock shelves and drawers that have locks
• Rearrange some furniture to hide wires or sockets. 
• Move cleaning supplies, toiletries and medicines to top racks
• Hide the pretty curios.
• Get a play pen. 
• Learn as you go. Your child will show you new danger zones.