So, you’re lucky enough to go on vacation and do a “house swap” uh? A house swap is a great way to save money, and a great way to have your own space on your vacation. However, if you are doing a house swap, you’re going to need to look at all the precautions if you have a toddler coming with you. Each parenting style is different, no matter if it’s the neighborhood down or a continent across - you’re going to have contrasts from your family to the family’s home you’re entering. But don’t fret - I have some quick tips and tricks to baby proof your home away from home.
Negotiating Stage
During the first stages of setting up a house swap, you should be asking the home owner of any important information you will need. Do they have children of their own? Do they have equipment for babies (safety gates, toys, crib, etc.) for you to use? Finding this information out will help you get an idea of what you’re stepping into, and let you know what and what not to bring.
Supplies
After you have talked to the home owner, and established what you need to do, create a checklist of things you need to bring. If they have the equipment listed above, then you’re pretty much all set for preparing a safe environment for your baby. However, there are little things that may slip your mind in a new home, like electrical outlets or sharp corners. I have one easy solution for you to fix this: duct tape! Yes, duct tape. It’s easy to pack, and not heavy at all - and helps protect your baby from harmful things at a new house.
What to Tape
- Electrical Outlets
- Curtain/Blind strings
- Tape these strings high, so your baby can’t reach them
- Any electrical cords on the floor, or within your babies reach
- Pillow Cushions
- On sharp corners, this way your baby won’t bonk his/her head
Final Check Through
Not only are you protecting your child from any harm at this new house, but you’re also protecting the home owner’s things as well. If you see anything expensive or fragile that your baby can reach, move it to a safer location.
After you’re done taping, do a quick walk through of the house. Look at things on the floor - the crawling space of your baby. Anything your baby can pick up and eat? Make sure everything is set for your baby to have an adventure.
A house swap can be fun and exciting, and even save you tremendous amounts of money on your vacation. Following these steps will ensure your child’s safety in this new home, and allows you to have a stress free vacation. Have a blast!
| Guest post by Naomi Broderick, a professional writer who is secure in her abilities and even more confident in her parenting. When she’s not juggling her three children in the front yard she writes for ProtectYourHome.com, a leader in home security. |
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