Keeping Little Ones Safe Around Seasonal Decor
The winter holidays fill our homes with light, color, and joy — and if you have a baby or toddler, they also fill your home with a lot of “ooooh, what’s that?” moments. Little ones are drawn to anything sparkly, glowing, or new, which means holiday decorating takes just a bit of strategy.
Whether your family celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, the Winter Solstice, or you simply adore twinkle-light season, here’s how to keep the magic alive while keeping your tiny explorer safe.
1. Christmas: Trees, Lights, and Those Tempting Ornaments
The Tree:
If your baby has recently discovered standing (or climbing… condolences), an anchored tree is essential. Use a sturdy stand and secure the tree to a wall with fishing line or a discreet hook so it doesn’t become the world’s most festive domino.
Ornaments:
Breakable ornaments, glass, and anything sharp goes up high or gets saved for when baby is older. Resin, wood, felt, or fabric decorations can be safe alternatives.
Lights:
Check for frayed wires, skip the vintage strands, and keep cords tucked or taped down. Everything goes in the mouth for littles, and that includes strands of lights.
Tree Water:
If you have a real tree, keep the water reservoir covered or blocked. Babies can drown in as little as an inch of water. Plus, tree water gets funky fast — not something you want consumed or splashed.
2. Hanukkah: Candles, Menorahs, and Gelt Galore
Menorah Placement:
Place your menorah on a high, sturdy surface away from little hands. If you prefer to light real candles, stay nearby and never leave them unattended. An LED menorah is a great alternative for extra glow during busy evenings.
Gelt:
Chocolate coins are delightful treats… and also perfect choking size. Keep them out of reach until it’s time to enjoy them together.
Dreidels:
Super fun for older kids, but small enough to be a hazard for babies. Store them up high when not in use.
3. Kwanzaa: Kinara, Decorations, and Joyful Gatherings
The Kinara:
Just like with a menorah, place candle holders on a stable surface that’s out of reach. If you prefer real candles, stay close while they’re lit. LED alternatives can offer a safer option during busy family moments.
Decor and Unity Cups:
Many Kwanzaa displays include wooden or ceramic items — beautiful, symbolic… and often irresistible to toddlers who love unauthorized “reorganization.” Use museum putty to keep items in place and avoid shattered symbolism.
4. General Winter Holiday Safety
Small Objects:
Mini ornaments, dreidels, beads, bells, and decorative nuts can all pose choking risks. If it can fit through a toilet paper tube, keep it up high.
Plants:
Poinsettias aren’t as toxic as legend claims, but they still cause stomach upset if eaten. Mistletoe and holly berries are more concerning. Keep all holiday plants out of reach or go faux.
Candles Everywhere:
Battery-operated candles are your best friend, especially when parties get lively. Save the real flames for calm, supervised moments.
Wrapping Supplies:
Ribbons, bows, and those plastic “gift dome” packages can be dangerous if chewed or wrapped around little limbs. Clean up those items quickly after gift opening.
Tabletop Decor:
Weighted tablecloth clips can keep enthusiastic climbers from pulling down an entire tablescape to get a better look at Nana’s pretty centerpieces.
5. When Hosting Guests
Kindly remind visitors to keep handbags, medications, and small items out of reach. Create a designated “safe zone” surface where everyone can put their things as they come in.
6. Celebrate With Confidence
The holidays are meant to feel cozy, joyful, and full of connection. With a little planning, you can enjoy the beauty of the season while keeping your baby or toddler safe and blissfully fascinated in all the right ways.
You deserve a holiday that feels good, looks gorgeous, and lets everyone breathe a little easier — especially you.
Want help making your whole house safer for little explorers this season? I’m always here to help make that magic feel stress-free.