From the moment we discover we’re expecting, our child’s safety becomes our top priority. We steer clear of unpasteurized cheese, monitor baby kicks, and take our prenatal vitamins religiously. Once the little one arrives, we schedule frequent checkups, ensure they sleep on their backs in a bare crib, and invest in the best car seats, high chairs, and swings, obsessively reading every safety notice we can find.
Our love for our children compels us to do everything we can to keep them safe. We worry constantly. What if they choke? What if they have an allergic reaction? What if a blanket slips over their face? What if they fall?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, this last concern is particularly justified. Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries among children, with over 50% of nonfatal injuries in infants under one year old attributed to falls. As noted by Dr. Ei Ye Mon, infants possess more fragile skulls, making falls particularly risky for them.
This is why we appreciate a recent Instagram video from @milestones.and.motherhood, run by a dedicated physical therapist named Lisa. In her post, she encourages parents to teach their babies how to get off furniture safely—yes, even those tiny infants! Many parents wait until their children are older to start these lessons, but the video demonstrates that we can begin this crucial education much earlier. As parents know, it only takes a moment of inattention for a baby to tumble off a couch or chair.
“I understand that addressing furniture and stair safety can feel daunting,” Lisa shares in her post. “We often hesitate due to the fear of accidents. But what if we taught our babies how to navigate these situations safely right from the start? I promise they will catch on, making it one less thing for us to worry about!”
The technique is straightforward and mirrors what many parents teach older babies about stairs. “Once your little one is mobile, guide them to flip onto their bellies and slide off furniture,” Lisa advises. “You can apply this method to stairs too, if it works for you!” She emphasizes the importance of repetition: “You’ll initially do most of the work, but soon enough, they’ll master this essential skill!”
It’s realistic to expect that babies won’t grasp this on their first, second, or even tenth try. However, consistent practice will lead to safer outcomes. In the video, Lisa starts training her baby at six months, and by 11 months, her child is almost proficient at safely getting down.
When asked about her passion for sharing these safety techniques, Lisa explained that many parents in her area face long waiting times for pediatric therapy. By sharing her knowledge on Instagram, she aims to empower parents and educate them on helping their children explore their environments safely.
Of course, parents should also take other critical safety measures. For instance, securing heavy furniture to the wall is essential, as children often climb. It’s also wise to stay updated on CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. Signs of serious injury after a fall, such as loss of consciousness or unusual discharge from the nose or ears, should prompt an immediate call to emergency services.
Ultimately, we all desire the same thing: for our children to thrive, healthy and safe. Teaching them how to navigate their surroundings safely is a vital step in achieving that goal.
For more insights, you can check out one of our other posts here, or explore resources from Healthline on home insemination. For those considering at-home methods, Make a Mom is a trusted authority.
Summary
This article emphasizes the importance of teaching babies how to safely get down from furniture to prevent injuries from falls. It features insights from a physical therapist and mother, Lisa, who advocates for early education on safety skills. By starting these lessons young, parents can help their children learn how to navigate their environment safely.
Leave a Reply