As a parent, your top priority is generally to make sure that your child is safe and healthy. Unfortunately, some of the most dangerous activities may seem innocuous and be easily overlooked. Here are six shockingly dangerous things that kids do:
Not Washing Hands Properly
Teaching kids the right way to wash their hands can prevent the spread of germs and reduce sickness in both adults and children. Make sure that your children are washing their hands for 20 seconds or more and scrubbing every part of their hands, including between their fingers and underneath the nails.
Hand washing is especially important after using the bathroom and before eating food. But since children tend to touch their face or mouth frequently, hands should be washed regularly throughout the day.
Not Brushing Teeth Regularly
It’s important to help kids establish a habit of brushing their teeth regularly, at least twice a day. This daily habit should also include flossing and rinsing with mouthwash.
This helps to prevent cavities and other dental problems. Additionally, tooth decay can cause pain and discomfort and lead to other medical problems.
Poisoning, Choking, and Suffocation Hazards
Young children seem to have an instinctive urge to put things into their mouths. Unfortunately, this can lead to them ingesting substances or objects that can cause choking or poisoning. Be sure to keep potentially dangerous items such as cleaning agents, medicine, and harmful liquids out of reach. Additionally, ensure that small objects such as coins and marbles are not left lying around where a young child can find them.
Not Learning How To Swim
Having your child learn to swim can help save their life in the event of an unexpected accident. Drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged 1-4 years, yet swimming lessons are not always on the top of a parent’s list. Make sure to enroll your child in swimming lessons as soon as they are able and supervise them closely anytime they are in or near water.
Not Wearing a Helmet
Most kids love biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, and other adventurous activities, but don’t underestimate the importance of wearing a helmet. Falls and injuries are very common in children and can cause serious and even fatal head injuries. Make sure that your child always wears a properly-fitting helmet when biking, skating, or engaging in any other activities in which they could take a tumble.
Not Careful Around Heat & Fire
Young children are often unaware or forgetful of the dangers posed by heat and fire. Make sure to keep things like matches, lighters, and candles out of reach, and always supervise kids when they are near a heat source. Additionally, teach them about the importance of not playing with matches or fire and emphasize that they should never do so without an adult present.
