Having children makes you so protective of them. You want to do everything you can to ensure no harm or illness ever comes to your little ones. You want them to be safe, well and happy, and you will sacrifice time, energy and money to ensure it. As a mother, you may see every little thing as a potential hazard. Every activity and every outing may come with its own mental risk assessment checklist! It’s not mad, and it’s not excessive. It’s the natural maternal instinct. Here are the top 5 protective accessories you will need for your baby so you can worry a little less this summer:
Car seat – These are now a legal requirement almost everywhere, so it’s essential you have one. They’re also pretty handy for carrying baby around too. In cold winters, add something like the Maxi Cosi car seat footmuff to keep your baby warm. There are also fitted rain covers, so your baby doesn’t become damp or cold from the water. The weight of the seat should be balanced so keep the handle in the correct position when carrying.
Sun protection – A parasol or other means to keep direct sunlight off newborn skin is essential. Over the weeks, a sun hat and some light clothing to keep the rays off will be enough. As your baby is weaned and entering toddlerhood, vitamin D becomes more difficult to find in their diet. They will need natural light on their skin and their face. To do this safely, be aware of the UV intensity, and choose an appropriate sunscreen to avoid damage to their skin.
Immunisations – Many parents worry about the side effects or complications of immunising their little ones. The jabs can be painful for small babies, but the pain very quickly subsides, and it’s all forgotten about in a couple of minutes. The harm that contracting the illnesses can cause may be far greater than anything your little one may suffer in the short term. Read the advice leaflets and use the internet to gain as much understanding as possible. Protecting your baby from dangerous and life threatening disease is important.
Flickr is the source of this pic
Reins – Road safety is imperative when your baby becomes a toddler. A simple set of child reins or a safety strapped backpack can keep your child from wandering too far from you. Holding hands is always best, but sometimes you have to push a buggy, or little one wriggles away from you. It’s best to enforce hand holding when crossing the road, even if you offer a little more freedom elsewhere.
Head protection – As your baby becomes a toddler, he will become interested in ride-on toys, scooters and bikes. As a toddler or preschooler, your child will not be as steady on his feet as you. It’s important to buy a cycle helmet to prevent life-changing injuries to your child should he fall.
Our kids will be the cause of worry and stress even after they’ve left home. It’s a side effect of being a parent that none of us wants to be rid of. Keeping our kids safe and well will always be our priority because we love them so much.