Baby Proofing The Christmas Tree

When we had our first baby we decorated the tree with lovely "Baby's First Christmas" ornaments. Then the year passed and my baby started exploring more and more. Finally, last Christmas, I had to admit my ornaments were no longer child safe. So, I went out and bought new ornaments and childproofed as best I could. Here is some advice when you're planning your first kid friendly Christmas tree.

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New Christmas ornaments:
Replaced with non breakable ornaments. Purchased stuffed animal ornaments, paper ornaments and made origami ornaments. Ornaments that were delicate and we wanted on the tree were placed at the top of the tree, out of reach.

Hanging Christmas ornaments:
Removed all metal hooks from ornaments and replaced with thread.

The light outlet is behind the tree and we don't let our toddler see it. We turn the tree on/off when he's not watching. He's in a phase where he wants to plug and unplug everything if given the chance.

Purchasing a small tree. We bought a 4'-5'ft tree. Mostly I like that small tree's are easier to decorate and fit in my son's playroom. Another bonus is that he's not tempted to climb it. His favorite stuffed animal ornaments are at the bottom so he can move them around as he likes.

A Christmas tree skirt is the best way to deter my son from looking under the christmas tree. Make sure the tree skirt doesn't have any decorations that can be ripped off and become a choking hazard !! Especially those with bells.

Most of all, remember less is more. Try not to over decorate the tree. For sanity's sake, know how many ornaments are on the tree so no little hands take and hide ornaments for entertainment later.

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Here are some more pictures of our Christmas tree. I can't wait for christmas morning :)

Should I buy water shoes for my toddler?

I never thought one of the main wardrobe components of my son's would be water shoes. We live in a hot desert climate and we find water recreationto be the funnest on a warm day. The cost of my son's water shoes was $30 at Stride Rite. Ouch, they were so cute I couldn't resist. To my surprise, I can't imagine my son's life without them. First, we used them for swimmng lessons, the hot pool concrete made it essential to have. Then, the water parks and splash parks, it's safer for him to be wearing them rather than stepping on dangerous park grounds. Overall, the investment in these shoes was worth it for us. Even playtime outside just watering the lawn requires these types of shoes. I am glad I purchased them and I think anyone with a toddler should consider adding them as an essential toddler accessory.