Toddler-Proofing 401

Last weekend, we spent many hours toddler-proofing our home above and beyond what we’d already done for our nephews who are frequently here. One of the challenges of Rex adjusting is that he is really strong and very determined, but developmentally he is so much younger than his physical/chronological age, so that’s a precarious combination. He has no concept of things that might be hazardous or risky because he has spent two years in two rooms that were designed to have no dangers, so he had no opportunities to learn in this area. Telling him no or explaining that he might get hurt simply doesn’t work at this time. Rewards or consequences are not an option yet because his communication skills are very limited. Plus, I didn’t want to spend our bonding days constantly having to reprimand him or remove him from stuff when he is basically doing the only natural thing which is to explore and experiment with his new environment.

So, here’s what we got accomplished:

1) Took my green plants upstairs because Rex likes to eat the leaves.

2) Took off the glass doors between the family room and the office (now mostly playroom) because Rex likes to slam them as often as possible.

3) Installed two additional gates to block toddler access to the parlour and dining room. The gate for the stairs that we have had for about 18 months is working very well.

4) Added more child-locks to the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen. Now everything under counter-height is secured.

5) Stacked the dressers in the office/playroom and bolted them to the wall as well as moved the armchair to the family room to create more space to play.

6) Zip-tied the glass doors of the fireplace because Rex likes to slam those, too.

7) Put protectors on some sharp furniture corners in the family room. I am sad to say, Rex has already pulled one of them off.

8) Added more outlet covers. I thought we had them all secured long ago, but you’d be surprised where more unprotected outlets show up when you move furniture.

9) Still to be done: Order a protective sleeve for the LCD screen on our TV. It is currently in great peril from Rex.

I am sure there will be more dangers and more to do as Rex and hopefully soon his sister continue their explorations. We will strive to find the right balance between keeping them safe and offering them opportunities to expand. If you have any suggestions of things we should keep in mind, please let us know.