How often should I re-check my home for hazards as my toddler grows?

Re-assess every few months, because new skills create new risks: a baby who starts pulling to stand can reach surfaces that were safe before, and a climbing toddler can topple furniture. Get down to your child's eye level to spot dangling cords, loose small parts, and reachable cleaning products. Re-check toys for damage and recalls regularly too.

Is it safe to leave my toddler playing alone in the garden for a few minutes?

Young children should never be left unsupervised near any water, including paddling pools, ponds, and water butts, as a child can drown in very shallow water silently and within seconds. Empty and cover water features, secure gates, and keep your toddler within sight and reach. If you must step away, bring them with you rather than leaving them outside alone.

Creating Safe Play Environments for Young Children

Practical advice on making indoor and outdoor play spaces safe for babies and toddlers, including supervision and hazard awareness.

Young children learn through play, and creating safe environments allows them to explore with confidence. From securing furniture to choosing age-appropriate toys, small adjustments to your home and garden can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. This page covers the essentials for keeping play spaces safe.

Indoor Safety Essentials

Secure heavy furniture to walls to prevent tip-overs, use safety gates at stairs, and keep small objects out of reach to reduce choking hazards. Check toys regularly for loose parts or damage. Ensure blind cords and cables are tied up and out of reach of curious hands.

Outdoor Play Safety

Always supervise young children near water, including paddling pools and garden ponds. Check playground equipment for hot surfaces in summer and slippery surfaces in winter. Teach children to stay within sight and establish clear boundaries about where they can and cannot go.

Supervised Play with Technology

If your child uses a tablet during play, ensure it is loaded only with pre-approved apps and that internet access is disabled or heavily filtered. Sit with your child during any screen-based play and set a timer to keep sessions short. Physical play should always take priority over digital play at this age.

External sources

Keeping children safe — NSPCC
Family support and advice — Family Lives

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.