Keeping Me Safe When I Explore
Here's What To Do
In rooms where I spend a lot of time, designate a low drawer or shelf as "mine." Put a sticker or a picture of me on the outside of the drawer.
Take out things you don't want me to play with, and include things it's okay for me to play with. For example: my kitchen drawer could have bowls, wooden spoons, or plastic measuring cups.
Help me learn which cabinets and drawers I should stay away from, but know that, at this age, I won't always remember or listen!
Add new things to my drawers or shelves to keep me interested and engaged! I’ll be less interested in exploring those “don’t touch” places if you do!
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Get down on your child's level and give them a hug.
Engage:
- "This is Carter's drawer. See, it has a sticker. Go ahead and open it, and see what's inside!"
- "No thank you, this cabinet is not for babies. Let me help you close it. You can open Carter’s cabinet instead. Look, there’s a new ball in here today!"
Encourage:
- Be consistent about what areas of our home are okay for me to explore. Over time, I will begin to know what is off-limits (though, I’m still going to be curious).
- Redirect me, and acknowledge me when I head for my own drawers and shelves! “I’m so glad you’ve remembered your special drawer”.
Reflect:
- If you get down on the ground and look at our home from my perspective, is there anything I could get into that I shouldn't?
Not quite ready?
As I begin to explore, it may be hard for me to understand where it’s okay for me to go. If I’m having trouble remembering, move me out of harm’s way until I’m a little older. Then try again.
Ready for more?
As I grow, give me opportunities to add play things to my special places, or create these spaces together!
As your child masters this skill...
They will begin to understand the concept of safety and will more consistently stay clear of places that could pose a danger to them.