"There is just one way to bring up a child in the way he should go, and that is to travel that way yourself." Abraham Lincoln

Most parents find this sentiment much easier to follow in their own homes, where they have considerable control over situations that arise. It is sometimes hard, however, when visiting relatives or friends, to get them to understand that a few things in their home need to change when toddlers and preschoolers come to call. In the coming months, we will highlight helpful hints to make your visit to other people's homes a more welcoming experience.

• Take safety locks and clips with you.
  
  It is a good idea to keep a few safety lock and plug clips in your travel bag. Children can and usually do get into things they are not supposed to. Ask your host's permission to use the locks and clips in the area your child will be playing. By bringing safety locks and clips, you have saved your friend or relative from having to purchase them and increased the likelihood that your visit will be a pleasant one.
  
  
• Keep doors closed while sleeping.
  
  For a sleepover or nap, check out the room. Be sure to get down on your child's level. You may be surprised what you can find from your child's vantage point. Use safety locks on windows, hampers and closet doors. Also remove any two-piece doorstoppers. They are potentially dangerous to young children, who put everything in their little mouths. Keep the door closed so that you can hear if your child tries to leave the room. Place a baby monitor up out of your child's reach to monitor activity in the room. Peek in occasionally, just to be sure all is as it should be.
  
  
• Swimming pools should always be monitored.
  
  There is a lot to say about pools and young children. The most important thing to remember is never to allow a child in or near the water without adult supervision. Water can be a fun experience to tots, but it is also very dangerous. Many children have drowned in just a few inches of water. If children are going to be around water, there should be an adult present who 1) knows how to swim, 2) knows CPR for children, and 3) can give permission for emergency treatment. Often, we allow our children to visit the neighbor or stay with a relative, taking for granted that all these things are in place.
  
  
• Teach your child 911.
  
  You might be surprised what children are learning these days. In many preschools, youngsters are interacting with computers and other technical gadgets. Children are learning faster than ever before. Teaching them to dial 911 in an emergency is a good lesson. You could teach to them in a song or rhyme. You could use puppets to show them when and how to call for help.

Upcoming article:

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Did you know? The average 4-year-old asks more than 400 questions every day.