Life Lesson For My Little Men #26

So after a few months of struggling through the ever increasing needs of baby proofing (struggling being a poor choice of words, but the best that I can find to fit), I think we have finally come to a reasonable balance between safety and the need to live some semblance of a realistic existence.  As I noted in an earlier post, when James and Andrew began crawling life for Adrienne and I dramatically changed.  Nothing it seems was off limits and for our little ones, the word “No” usually results in a wry smile and giggle as we continue to do what it was that got Dad or Mom so riled up in the first place.  I have decided that it might be beneficial for folks to read a little about this journey as you find your way through the exploration phase. 

First off, anything made of paper is not only tearable but edible…good to know if you have a magazine rack or books that are within 3 and half feet from the ground.  Next, if it is new to them (i.e. They have not seen it in the past 24 hours), then it is brand new and needs to be touched or preferably put in their mouths.  Another nice twist on this dynamic with twins is that it maybe new to one of them and then five minutes later new to the other…creating a constantly rotating game of keep away and possible jealousy.  Another good thing to note is that as they become stronger and can stand, what was out of reach quickly becomes in reach or at least worth making the effort for.  This includes, items on the kitchen table and pets.  If you have a cat it will be a good idea to help your babies (y) understand how to be gentle and what parts (tail) are off limits.  We have also turned off the pilot light on our gas fireplace.  There are grates that you can buy to keep little hands away from the incredibly hot glass, but until we take that leap we thought it was best to leave nothing to chance.  Another good thing to know is that you will have to buy a few things, here’s a list of what we have found works:

1) Safety gates (we bought an even-flo gate from sears, and then Canadian Tire, when we discovered that a tension gate at the top of a short flight of stairs wasn’t quite up to the task). http://www.evenflo.com/product.aspx?id=230

2)   Outlet covers (initially we bought the traditional stick in to the socket covers, but these quickly became a source of entertainment for our lads so we went back to the drawing board and purchased a sliding cover that works on springs). http://www.kidco.com/products-page/electrical/s205/

3)   Cupboard door locks (in the kitchen we have a combination of Ikea basic drawer locks and the magnetic ones that unlock with a key.  Both require some drilling in your cabinets, which caused a bit of apprehension at first, but as long as you are comfortable with a drill and take your time, you’ll be fine). http://www.tot-lok.com/

4)   Our TV stand has two sliding glass drawers that required additional locking mechanisms
http://www.kidco.com/products-page/locks-latches/s410/
5)   Oven knob guards (we have a gas oven and the knobs are on the front, so even if they aren’t able to light it, they could turn it on.  So these are incredibly important).

http://www.safetysuperstore.com/product/18641/clearly_safe_stove_knob_locks/

As I mentioned above, this is an ever-evolving process.  Each day our boys become stronger and more independent meaning that we have to find new ways to keep dangerous objects out of their way.  However, the look of pride that crosses their face when they take a few steps or find something new is completely worth the effort needed to make our place safer.

So my little men who find new ways to make me smile with every minute of every day, I think an important thing to remember is this.  Often we try and do everything to keep those that we love safe from harm, and sometimes we do so at the expense of learning.  We have tried not to remove every obstacle in your way, as obstacles will be a part of your everyday.  Similarly, we often learn to avoid things that may push our limits of understanding or ability, just ask your mom about the two times I have been inline skating with her.  This is a challenging lesson to unlearn.  Life is about discovery.  Modern life has found ways for us to stay in a bubble, but it has also afforded us with great possibilities to learn new things.  It will be important for you to keep an open mind and truly explore the world around you beyond the borders of comfort, safety and ease…please try and take every opportunity to be brave and while the important caveat is that you find balance in doing so, I don’t say so with the thought towards extending limits but to ask you to think before you leap.

Keep exploring, discovering, smiling and laughing!!!!

Love,

Dad

PS – Thanks for your help with the laundry the other day.  Your mom and I truly appreciate the enthusiasm with which you help us unfold what is folded and empty the basket…you have a gift.