Health and safety tips for your toddler

Our health visitor gives the low down on health and safety for your little one

Posted: 27 September 2011
by Practical Parenting’s Annette Maloney

Make sure you tidy up all tools in the garden so your toddler won't get hurt

It's important that you're a good role model and brush your teeth twice a day!

Keep sugary foods for mealtimes only to reduce the risk of tooth decay. A small piece of cheese after can help reduce the acidity in their mouth.
Avoid sweet drinks in teat-topped bottles and feeders, as they cover teeth in sugar for longer.
Limit sweets and give rewards such as stickers or crayons instead.
Encourage your tot to brush twice a day and set a good example by making it part of your routine together.
Register with a dentist and take your tot for checkups, so she gets used to it.

Expect energy levels to be lower for a few days at least. Extra rest will aid a speedy return to health.
Keep offering regular fluids. It’s so important to keep them hydrated.
Small, energy-rich snacks and meals are a good re-introduction to eating normally again. Try giving small portions of soup, mash or rice pudding.
Complete all prescribed medicines, especially antibiotics, even if your child is getting better before the course is finished.
Carry on good hygiene. Use disposable tissues for runny noses, a clean one each time, and wash hands before meals.

Use straws and flavoured ice cubes to tempt your child to drink as much fluid as possible, even if he’s not thirsty.
Lower his temperature with regular paracetemol or ibruprofen, checking the correct dose for his age.
Undress your child to his nappy or pants. If he’s cold, use a cotton sheet.
Keep the room temperature comfortable (around 18ºC or 65ºF).
If his temperature remains above 40-41ºC, consult your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

Register your toddler with a dentist as they’re a great source of advice on preventing tooth decay.
Be a good role model – take your tot with you to your dental check-ups and keep the experience positive.
Stop giving your toddler a bottle once she reaches 1 year as drink from a beaker or cup is less likely to cause decay.
Stick to water between meals. Children will drink it when they’re thirsty.
Brush teeth twice a day with child’s toothpaste.

Remove all water dangers from the garden, fencing off ponds and pools – even small ones can be a danger.
Always clear up tools like hoses and rakes, or anything that could be a trip hazard for a little one.
Introduce road safety to your tot by waiting at every crossing for a green light.
Make sure the whole family wears cycle helmets if you go out on bikes.
Carry a small first-aid kit in your changing bag to deal with any stings, minor scrapes or allergic reactions.

Road role model. Always cross roads safely, explaining how to look and listen for dangers.
Strap check. Even on quick, short trips, make sure that car seat or buggy straps are secure.
Lost and found. With an older toddler, discuss what to do if she gets lost, such as heading for a till in a shop.
Water watch. Fence off any potential danger areas in your garden, and encourage relatives and friends to do the same.
Sticker her up. On day trips out to crowded areas, pop a sticker on your little one’s back with your mobile phone number on it, rather than her name.