by Sarah Staples

Created on: June 22, 2008   Last Updated: July 11, 2011

As a new parent you will dream of the day your baby rolls over for the first time, crawls towards you when you arrive home and takes their first steps. The reality is that as your baby becomes increasingly mobile you will become ever fearful of the potential for them to fall and injure themselves.

All babies fall more times than can be remembered during their progression to toddlership. The great majority of these tumbles will result in little more than a small bruise or dent in their confidence, soon forgotten. However, the potential for serious injury is real. The following tips will aid you in reducing the risk of your baby injuring themselves due to falling.

1. Never underestimate what your baby can do. Always try to be one step ahead and anticipate that they can roll, crawl or walk, even if you have yet to witness them do so.

2. Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table or raised surface. Ideally have a change unit with a safety strap. If you need to move away from the change table to fetch a forgotten item, take your baby with you, or place them safely on the floor. Often, the floor is the safest place to change your baby.

3. Similarly, avoid leaving your baby alone on your bed. One day they will be able to roll off, even if your have surrounded them with cushions and quilts.

4. Ensure stair gates are securely fitted at the top and bottom of stairs. Have these fitted well in advance of when you think you may need them. Ensure everyone in your home knows how to correctly use the stair gates.

5. If you use a bouncy chair for your baby, never place this on a table or raised surface. One day they will be strong enough to bounce themselves off, or an older sibling may accidentally knock the chair, causing your baby to fall.

6. Ensure your baby is securely fastened into their pram or buggy. Once they are using a high chair, ensure they are always strapped in using a five point harness. Make sure any high chair has a wide base so it can not be knocked over by your child moving around.

7. Always use a non slip bath mat to prevent your baby falling in the bath.

8. Be aware of objects that a more mobile baby could climb up on to. Avoid putting objects that may act as "steps" near windows or other interesting objects that your baby may be keen to explore. Ensure windows are locked, or can not be opened enough for your baby to climb out.

9. Once your baby shows signs of attempting to climb out of their cot, it may be safer to remove the side and instead use a side bed guard. This would reduce the height of any potential fall. If your baby is attempting to climb out of bed at night it may also be advisable to place soft padding beside their bed to soften any impact.

10. Always ensure any play equipment your baby uses is age appropriate, and is located on a soft impact surface.

In conclusion, all babies will fall numerous times as they become more mobile and learn to explore the world around them. Being aware of the potential of falls and following the ten tips above will help to lessen the risk, and hopefully avoid any significant injury.

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