Preschooler Development

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Safety

Safety is extremely important for preschoolers.

• The preschooler is highly mobile and able to quickly get into dangerous situations. Parental supervision at this age is essential, just as during earlier years.
• Car safety is critical. The preschooler should be in a seat belt each time he rides in a car. At this age children may be riding with other children's parents. It is important to review with others, who may be supervising your child, your rules for car safety.
• Falls are a major mechanism of injury for the preschooler. Climbing to new and adventurous heights, the preschooler may fall off playground equipment, bikes, down stairs, from trees, out windows, and off roofs. Lock doors that access dangerous areas (such as roofs, attic windows, and steep staircases) and provide strict rules for the preschooler to understand areas that are off limits.
• Kitchens are a prime area for a preschooler to incur burns, either trying to help cook or coming in contact with appliances left to "cool off." Encourage the child to help cook or learn cooking skills with safe, cool recipes. Maintain alternate activities for the child to enjoy in an adjoining room while cooking, keeping the child away from the stove, hot foods, and other appliances.
• Keep all household products and medicines safely locked out of the reach of preschoolers. Know the number for your local poison control center and have Ipecac syrup available in the event of a poisoning if directed to use it by the poison control center.