The first step in parenting

Sometimes I envy those parents from decades ago who raised their children without the pressure of social media or the endless amounts of online information. I quickly snap out of that nostalgia, however, when I remember that babies were carried on laps while riding in moving cars, among other incredibly dangerous practices.

The fact is that we live in a different time, and we can choose to take advantage of its benefits. As a former pediatric intensive care unit nurse, who has cared for many children following preventable accidents, I believe the first step in parenting is safety.

Preparing their homes and cars to ensure that children are safe when they arrive, is an act of love by parents! The key is to find guidelines and recommendations from trusted resources. A good place to start is by listening to the experts from organizations such as the Center for Disease Control & Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.  Their recommendations are evidence-based and show a pattern of preventing injuries. When the social media advice gets loud, remember to look at the experts and research.