Updating Grandparents on Current Child Care Safety Practices

Back when Grandma and Grandpa were young parents, they couldn’t go to a manufacturer’s website and read information about safety recalls. If they missed the six o’clock news, they may have missed the memo that the crib you slept in was recalled due to risks of entrapment and suffocation. Research, technology advancements, and a greater emphasis on children’s health and well-being have shaped the child care safety practices that are in place today. With that in mind, here are four safety changes to update grandparents on before babysitting.

Sleep Safety for Infants

Then: Babies slept on t heir stomachs with blankets, bumpers, and stuffed animals.
Now: Always place babies on their backs in a bare crib to reduce SIDS risk.

When you were an infant, it was common for babies to be put to sleep on their stomach surrounded by blankets, bumpers, pillows, and stuffed animals. Research in the 1990s showed these sleeping practices increased the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Current sleep practices by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing infants on their back to sleep and keep the crib clear of pillows, blankets, or stuffed toys.

Feeding Safety

Then: Less awareness of choking hazards.
Now: Cut grapes, hot dogs, and other round foods into small pieces. Ensure kids sit while eating to reduce choking.

As a child, your parents likely became more aware of the dangers of choking. However, choking still remains a leading cause of death in children under the age of 5. Smooth, round foods such as grapes and hot dogs are choking hazards and should be cut into smaller pieces that are safe to swallow. In addition, keep in mind that mealtime is not playtime! Children need to be sitting until they are done eating to decrease the risk of choking with movement.

Screen Time Recommendations

Then: TV and games weren't portable..
Now: Too much screen time can hinder early brain development. Follow parents' rules about when and how much screen time is allowed.

Electronics were stationary items during your childhood. You didn’t grab your tube-style TV as you ran out the door or ask to bring your Nintendo to play with in the car. Share with your parents your screen time rules and limits. As tempting as it may be for Grandma to hand over her phone, remind her that screen time in young children can interfere with brain growth and the development of key cognitive skills.

Childproofing and Home Safety

Then: Outlet covers and cabinet locks..
Now: Add furniture anchors, foam corner guards, and secure stair gates. Learn how to use modern safety tools such as toilet locks.

Today, childproofing is more comprehensive than locking cabinets with dangerous chemicals or using outlet covers. Now there are straps that prevent furniture from tipping over, stronger and more secure stair gates, and foam corner protectors to prevent head injuries. Make sure you show Grandma how to use these updated safety devices. You don’t want her to not be able to not be able to get the toilet seat lock opened in time!

For more information on safety practices, preventing injuries, and establishing a good relationship from the start, check out Grandparents: Getting Started. This program is taught by certified Safe Sitter® Instructors across the country. Use our Find A Class feature to connect with Providers in your area and inquire if they have offer this program. If you cannot find a class near you, you can purchase a copy of the Grandparents: Getting Started Participant Handbook.

Summary

Child care safety guidelines have changed significantly over the decades — what was common practice for grandparents may now be considered unsafe.
Infants should always be placed on their backs in a bare crib to reduce the risk of SIDS — no blankets, bumpers, pillows, or stuffed animals.
Choking remains a leading cause of death in children under age 5. Round foods like grapes and hot dogs should be cut into small pieces, and children should always be seated while eating.
Screen time can interfere with brain development and cognitive growth in young children — share your household rules with grandparents before they babysit.
Modern childproofing goes beyond outlet covers and cabinet locks — show grandparents how to use furniture anchors, stair gates, corner guards, and toilet locks before they're needed.
The Safe Sitter® Grandparents: Getting Started program helps grandparents get up to speed on current safety practices and build a strong relationship with the families they support.

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