Toddlers and Falls Prevention
The size of a toddler’s head is disproportionate to the rest of his or her body, and the neck muscles are still weak. Exploring is a toddler’s favorite pastime, so when a baby first learns to walk, preventing falls requires constant supervision.
Children and Falls Prevention
Falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries for children ages 0 to 19. Everyday, approximately 8,000 children are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fall-related injuries.
Basic precautions to prevent falls:
- – Supervision is key. Supervise young children at all times around fall hazards, such as stairs and playground equipment, whether you’re at home or out to play.
- – Play safely. Falls on the playground are a common cause of injury. Check to make sure that the surfaces under playground equipment are safe, soft, and well-maintained (such as wood chips or sand, not dirt or grass).
- – Make your home safer. Use home safety devices, such as guards on windows that are above ground level, stair gates, and guard rails. Be aware of heights; never leave a baby or toddler alone on a bed or changing able. Minimize clutter, especially on stairs. Avoid baby walkers.
- – Keep sports safe. Make sure your child wears protective gear during sports and recreation. For example, when in-line skating, use wrist guards, knee and elbow pads, and a helmet.
Citation: http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/Falls/index.html
