September is Baby Safety Month and a great opportunity for you to make sure your little one is surrounded by the safest products you can find. Baby Safety Month is sponsored by Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association (JPMA). Their goal is to make sure that parents and caregivers are educated in choosing the best products that are safe for babies and children as a whole. These tips may seem common sense, but sometimes we get so wrapped up in parenting that it doesn’t hurt to get a gentle reminder now and again. Here is what you can do to help observe baby safety month:
Check the latest product recalls. Toys and items can get safety recalls, and its best to stay on top of it to make sure there isn’t something you missed. Look at the Global Recall Portal if you have doubts about an item.
Register your products. When you buy a new toy or item, sometimes you can register your products. While this may seem time-consuming, this gives manufacturers direct contact with you if something becomes unsafe or is recalled. It’s also great for warranty, especially on those more expensive toys.
Choose products that are developmentally appropriate for your child. Make sure you read the guidelines and age recommendations for each item you give your child. Monitor your child’s growth and development. Switch out items they have outgrown and ensure you are not giving them items that are not age-appropriate. This is so easy not to do, especially with older kids in the house and is something we are struggling with at the moment with 12-year-olds and a 5-year-old.
Read the labels. Check the manufacturer’s labels and warning labels of your baby’s items. It’s a basic one, but one we’ve all missed at some point!
Stay safe!