Let's Be Careful At Babies Bath Time
Bath time can and
should be one of the most enjoyable times of the day for parents and
children; a perfect opportunity to bond and relax with baby. But
once baby has moved into the big tub, the big shiny faucet and warm
streaming water can be too much to resist, despite mom and dads
repeated warnings. So how can parents ensure that bath time is safe,
enjoyable and relaxing for everyone? A few precautionary measures go
a long way.
Stay in Touch
The single most important action that a parent must take each time a
bath is given is touch supervision. According to the American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), touch supervision requires that an
adult be within arms reach of baby at all times. If you cannot touch
your baby at any time during the bath, then you are too far away.
Nationally, drowning is the third leading cause of injury-related
deaths in children younger than one and the second leading cause of
injury-related deaths in children ages one to four. In fact, young
children can drown in less than two inches of water, according to
AAPs Injury Prevention Program (TIPP). Drowning frequently occurs
quickly and quietly, in the amount of time it would take a parent to
take or make a phone call. Regardless of the intended time of
absence, a parent must never leave baby unattended in the tub at any
time for any reason ,very simply, touch supervision saves lives. No
gizmo or gadget will prevent drowning or substitute for the adult
supervision that can.
Keep Your Distance
The second most important action a parent must take is to protect
baby from the faucet and fixtures. According to the National Safe
Kids Campaign, 5,000 children a year require emergency room
treatment for tap water burns. The AAP warns that the bathtub is a
source of severe scalding burns. In addition to burns, contact with
the faucet can cause injuries resulting in stitches, bumps, bruises,
scrapes and even chipped teeth. for help pl visit the link below .
The Center for Injury Research and Policy at Columbus Children's
Hospital found that 75 percent of kids under age five who were hurt
in the tub were being supervised at the time.
When selecting safety products for the bath, avoid products that
will attract a baby. Bright colors, shiny materials, and happy
animals will all draw babies towards them, despite their intended
safety purpose.
In addition to touch supervision and the right safety products,
parents should also take the following precautions when bathing
baby:
- Set water heater to 120 degrees or less.
- Check water temperature on the inside of your wrist before placing
baby in the bath.
- Place a rubber mat or non-slip appliqués on the bottom of the tub.
- Have bathing supplies, clothes and towels already assembled prior
to babies bath.
- Always bathe baby using as little water as necessary.
- Do not allow other children to substitute for adult supervision.
With the right preparation, precaution and products, bath time can
be fewer struggles and more fun.
by Bimla Sheokand For help pl visit the site
www.baby-care-book.com
www.babies-tips.com
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