As my oldest daughter began to crawl, I began to babyproof the house. Outlets were covered, breakables were put out of reach and of course, medicine and cleaning products were put in a safe place.
Fast forward nearly six years and I still find that I’m always on alert. This is especially true when someone comes to visit. Our visitors aren’t always accustomed to having young children around the house, so I sometimes find myself putting purses up high so little hands don’t go exploring. Occasionally, I have to push back a knife or scissors that have veered to close to the edge of a counter or table. Then, there are those hot coffee cups that I’m constantly aware of lest someone put one too near a little one.
Now, with six years experience at childproofing spaces, I’m realizing I also need to make sure my home is kid friendly.
I started thinking about this not long after I moved the plastic cups from an upper kitchen cabinet to a lower cabinet. I sort of expected my children to be a bit disappointed that I was no longer the one always getting their water, milk and juice. Quite the opposite, they were thrilled to be able to help themselves when they’re thirsty. It made me wonder what else I should consider putting within their reach. After all, isn’t it part of my job to help my children become self sufficient?
How do you make your home kid friendly?