Young children learn many new skills over a short period. Physical activity is important for their development. As babies and toddlers have large heads compared to their bodies, this affects their balance and makes them more likely to fall. To help your child avoid serious injury from a fall, it is important to be aware of your child’s stage of development.
What are common falls for children 0 to 4 years old?
- Falls while being carried by someone
- Falls from a bed, change table or other furniture
- Slips, trips and stumbles while walking or running
- Falls from stairs
Tips to prevent a fall (0 to 4 years)
Active supervision is important to protect your child from injury. This means keeping them in view and staying close enough to reach them if you need to. Be aware of your surroundings while carrying your baby.
In the child's room:
- Move your baby's crib mattress to its lowest position as soon as your baby can sit upright or push up on their hands and knees (5 to 6 months).
- Place all furniture and crib away from windows and balcony door handles.
- Move your child to a toddler's bed or mattress on the floor once they try to climb out of their crib.
- The top bunk of a bunk bed is only recommended for children six years of age and older and should not be used for playing. Visit the Government of Canada website for more information.
In the home:
When you 'child-proof' your home, get down to your child's level to see things the way they do.
- Remove tablecloths and fasten furniture to the wall to prevent tipping (dressers, bookshelves, TV) because babies climb before they walk.
- If you need to leave your child unattended for a short time, the crib or playpen is a safe place.
- Always watch and stay close with a hand on your baby when they are on a raised surface such as a change table, bed or sofa. Consider changing your baby on the floor.
- Put corner guards on furniture with sharp edges.
- Place car seats and bouncy chairs on the floor, not on tables, counters or furniture.
- Always use the restraint strap on strollers, high chairs, and other equipment.
- Wear socks with grips to prevent slips.
- Do not use baby walkers (Canada banned them in 2004).
- Lock windows and balcony doors.
- Use window guards to prevent window opening more than 10cm (4in). Window screens do not prevent children from falling out.
On the stairs:
- Use a safety gate that screws into the wall at the top of the stairs. A pressure-mounted gate can be used at the bottom of the stairs.
- Remove the gate once your child tries to climb over or when recommended by the manufacturer, usually age two. Check with Health Canada to make sure your safety gates meet current standards.
- Securely fasten handrails on all stairs and teach your child to use them.
- Stay close to children who are learning to use stairs.
- Discourage play on the stairs.
- Keep stairs well lit and free of clutter and tripping hazards.
- Lock doors that lead to stairs or use a doorknob cover.