Travel Safety for Preschoolers

Curious kids need careful attention!

By the preschool stage, your child is more able-bodied, more independent and has a better command of rules and expectations, but you can’t let down your guard in regards to child safety. Your precious one is particularly susceptible to mishaps when traveling due to the unfamiliar environment, the tempting distractions and the excitement of it all, so your job as supreme protector is still full-on.

Travel often entails water fun, which requires hyper-vigilant awareness. Never leave a preschooler near any body of water without constant supervision, be it a bath, wading pool, ocean, fish pond or hot tub.

Be especially careful when walking in crowded areas like busy streets or bustling markets. Insist on holding hands near traffic or on mountain top viewpoints.

Absent-minded preschoolers can mindlessly wander off given the opportunity. Always be aware of what your child is wearing and carry a recent photo in case you need to involve others in a search. Teach your child his or her first and last name, parents’ names, and the name of the place you are staying, just in case of separation. An ID bracelet or card in the backpack is recommended.

You can relax a little on the child-proofing duties (unless you have younger children as well), but to be on the safe side, do a thorough once-over as you settle in to your home-away-from-home.

• Get on your hands and knees and explore the room from your curious preschooler’s perspective.
• Ensure balcony doors are locked and there is no climbable furniture near the railing.
• Make sure no furniture is placed or can be moved near open windows.
• Check under beds and in low drawers for small objects that might be harmful such as a dropped pin, pill or button.
• Tie up cords on any window blinds so they aren’t a choking hazard – a twist tie or pipe cleaner will do the trick.
• If you’re a guest in someone’s home, check that medications and household cleaners are secure from your child’s path of exploration.
• Make sure you don’t leave your own razors, medicines or other toiletry hazards where your child may discover them.
• Pack some cupboard latches – or wrap some pipe cleaners or strong rubber bands around the handles or knobs of cupboards you don’t want your tyke getting into.
• Make sure you test the water temperature where you’re staying before giving your child a bath – it might come in hotter than what you’re used to at home.