How to Prevent Injuries and Support Development while Babies Learning to Crawl and Walk
There is nothing quite as exciting as your baby reaching exciting new milestones - sitting up, crawling, and then walking (but also - please stop growing so fast 😭).
It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and concern, you’ve spent the first few months protecting them from EVERYTHING, so learning to be okay with watching them fall while learning to walk, can be pretty tough.
Remind yourself that toddlers falling is a huge part of them mastering their new skills and helps them understand their balance and develop coordination. Each fall is simply preparing them for their next attempt!
Here are a few insights into the baby crawling to walking phase so you can support your child’s development while doing your best to keep them nice and safe. I picked these up them when my little guy Phoenix (below) learnt to walk. 💖
How to Prevent Injuries While Babies and Toddlers Learn to Walk
- Clear the Area: Keep floors free of toys and potential tripping hazards.
- Use Safety Bumpers: Protect sharp furniture edges with bumpers to cushion corners.
- Secure Cords: Remove or secure cords from blinds and electronics to prevent tripping or choking.
- Non-Slip Footwear: Choose socks or shoes with non-slip soles for better traction to give them a head start.
- Install Safety Gates: Block stairways and dangerous areas with safety gates.
- Create a Soft Landing: Use soft play mats or rugs to cushion falls.
- Use a Protection Pillow: Baby Head Protection Pillows are the CUTEST way to protect those precious heads from backwards falls!
Are Baby Knee Pad Socks A Good Idea?
Baby knee pad socks are a game changer for protecting your baby’s knees during the crawling/walking phase. Not only do they provide cushioning against hard floors, but they reduce the risk of friction burns and bruises during those stumbles. Gosh I wish I had these when Phoenix was little because he got red knees from crawling so much.
Baby Walkers - To Use or Not To Use?
While baby walkers can assist with mobility and offer parents some much needed convenience, they should not be relied upon as a training tool for walking. Some experts even no longer endorse the use of walkers, as they believe they do not effectively promote the balance and coordination needed for walking.
We personally couldn’t imagine surviving this phase WITHOUT a walker (just being honest 😂), so decided on a multi-functional 3 in 1 walker so the use of it changed and evolved as bub grew and developed.
As with everything baby related - we just encourage you to do your own research and then choose what you feel is best for you and your family. My boy (see below) was walking by 10 months and running by 12 and he's been running every since 🫣. I'm definitely a boy mum!!
Baby Head Protection Pillow - Possibly The Best Thing Ever Invented!
Baby head protection pillows are such a fantastic addition for those early walking days. Not only do little ones look ridiculously cute wearing these, but they do also provide crucial protection for their precious heads. Let’s be honest, many of the biggest tumbles occur when babies fall backwards, so backpack pillows offer a soft cushion to minimise impact on the back of bubs head.
How Do I Know If My Child Is Okay After a Fall?
After a fall, observe them for signs of distress such as excessive crying, irritability, or a change in behavior. Check for visible injuries like bruises or swelling. If they seem unusually lethargic or exhibit concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Trust your instincts and seek medical advice if anything seems off.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific concerns or emergencies.