Parenting Tips for Your 9 Month Old Baby

Once your baby can stand, she can reach farther and higher. She can reach things that were out of reach before. Look at each room in your house again for new hazards.

Here are some tips to make your house safer for your baby:

• Remove wobbly tables that could tip over when your baby uses the furniture to pull herself up. Fasten bookcases and dressers to the wall if they are not sturdy.

• Set the crib mattress to the lowest level. Remove bumper pads and large stuffed toys that your baby could use as “stepping stones” to climb out.

• Look for dangling electrical cords, tablecloths, or curtains that your baby could pull down or get tangled in.

• Keep medicines, cleaners, pesticides, alcohol, and other poisons locked out of your baby's reach. This includes vitamins and iron supplements.

• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.

• Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in case your baby turns on the faucet. Your baby can be burned by hotter water. Also, you’ll save money on your energy bills.

• Never leave your baby alone in or near water, not even for a minute.

• Don't let your baby stand up in the grocery cart at the store. You may be able to find a cart with a safety strap to keep her seated.

• Don't let your baby stand in the high chair.

• Watch out for things that pinch your baby’s fingers, such as door hinges and folding chairs.

• Do not tie toys to your baby’s crib or playpen. The string can strangle her.

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