Background Information
SETTING – Ontario Early Years Centre
AGE – Infant 0-12 months
ACTION – Putting things in their mouth
INJURY – Poisonings
PARENT RESPONSE – Easy, receptive parent
Script
Narrative: As children learn new skills they are at risk for different injuries.
Talking to parents or caregivers about these new skills is a great teachable
moment about child safety. This scenario is about preventing the risk for
poisoning. It will focus on an infant who is just starting to put things in his
mouth. This video will demonstrate a conversation with a parent who is
receptive to learning information about how to keep her child safe.
Parent – Jacob is always moving. It seems like I can’t take my eyes off of him for a
second. He’s even starting to put things in his mouth.
ECE –It is important to notice his new skills. As he learns new things it can put him
at risk for injury, like poisonings.
Parent –My husband and I have locked up our medications. Is there more we can
do?
ECE –You could try to place yourself at his level. Get down on the ground and see
what he can reach. Then, ask yourself “So what can hurt Jacob?” Think about the
kitchen. What is poisonous in the kitchen that he can reach?
Parent – Cleaning supplies.
ECE – Yes. Exactly. What else?
Parent – I’ve heard that some plants are poisonous.
ECE – Yes, some plants can be poisonous and are often forgotten. So now that you
know these are dangerous for Jacob what can you do to help keep him safe?”
Parent – I could lock up my cleaning supplies.
ECE – Great idea. What else?
Parent – I could keep my plants up high.
ECE – You can do that. Just remember that keeping plants up high still allows for
leaves to fall off, which Jacob could eat. So it may be easier just to get rid of the
plant.
Parent – Good point. Thanks for your help.
ECE – No problem. An easy way to think about safety is to remember the saying
“What, So What, Now What”. Ask yourself “What is my child doing now?” Then “So
what can hurt my child?” Then once you know the risks, ask yourself “Now what can
I do to keep my child safe?“
Parent – Wow, that sounds like a lot to remember!
ECE – I know it sounds overwhelming but we have resources to guide you. Let’s get
some and go see what Jacob is up to.
Narrative: “What, So What, Now What” helps parents and caregivers think
through their child’s developmental milestones, risks for injuries, and
problem solve some ways to keep their child safe. Encourage your families to
ask themselves these questions and together we can prevent child injuries.