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 While
our grandmothers might have supported the notion that infants
and toddlers should remain indoors or in the confines of the
playpen or back yard for safety, today's health conscious
parents are finding that the sky is the limit when enjoying
outdoor activities with their children.
From biking
and hiking to walking and jogging, today's parents are keeping
fit and bonding with their babies in the process. With an
array of products unheard of a generation ago - like baby
carriers, joggers and trailers - even the tiniest among us
are enjoying the great outdoors. But while these items can
make life easier and more enjoyable for both parent and child,
they can be the cause of pain and injury if not used properly.
Biking
Only an experienced bike rider should attempt to bike with
a child on board. Even an experienced rider should practice
with a ride-along trailer for two weeks prior to riding with
a child.
When you are ready to go for a ride with your child, be sure
to protect your child's head with a proper helmet. The helmet
should be adjustable so that it fits well. If the helmet rests
too high, it will expose part of the head, leaving it susceptible
to injury.
Trailers
and Carriers
A trailer is a rolling ride-along that hitches to the back
end of a bicycle and houses a child. When selecting a trailer,
look for quality. The trailer must be equipped with a harness
that can be placed over the child's body. A simple seatbelt
across the waist is not adequate, as it does not protect the
child's face from slamming forward during an abrupt stop.
The harness should be complicated enough that the child cannot
unhook it or wiggle out of it. It is also a good idea to select
a trailer that comes with a screen that covers the front.
This adds an extra line of protection against stray pebbles,
insects and other flying objects. Finally, check the trailer's
tires. Large tires with plenty of traction, like those of
a bicycle, are best.
Jogging
If you wish to go for a jog and bring your child along for
the ride, the baby jogger is your best option. A baby jogger
is a rolling pushcart that a parent can jog behind, using
handlebars to maneuver. Many of the same safety guidelines
discussed regarding bike trailers should be applied to joggers.
Here are some rules of thumb to consider:
•
Make sure the handlebars of the jogger fit comfortably into
your hands. You want to have complete control.
•
Handbrakes are a necessity.
•
Some kind of locking mechanism is also essential. In case
you need to stop, you do not want the jogger to roll away
from you.
•
Look for a jogger with a good shoulder harness to keep the
child secure. A simple seatbelt is not good enough.
•
Large, bicycle-style tires offer more control and stability.
• A
screen over the front of the jogger adds to its safety by
deflecting stray pebbles and other potentially dangerous flying
objects.
•
Jog only on smooth surfaces. Rough terrain can reduce control.
Hiking,
Walking And Working
A backpack-style or front-side baby carrier can allow a parent
to carry a child while walking or hiking. And by keeping a
parent's arms free, it also enables him or her to do light
work around the house while carrying a child. It is important
to note, however, that carrying a child on a walk or a hike
may cause fatigue by adding extra stress to your circulatory
system, and may increase the likelihood of a fall.
Backpack-Style
and Front-Side Baby Carriers
If using a backpack-style or front-side baby carrier, make
sure to select one with wide straps for your shoulders and
waist. This will help distribute the carrier's weight evenly.
The shoulder straps should fit comfortably over the center
of your collarbone. The carrier should include a harness to
keep the child's head and spine stable. Once you place the
child in the carrier, check to make sure there is no bunching
of material against the child's body, particularly on the
back, buttocks and spine. Isolated, uneven pressure like this
can produce a painful condition known as palsy.
An adjustable
carrier that allows you to carry your baby on either your
back or chest is probably your best option.
Finally,
never run or jog while carrying a baby in any backpack-style,
front-side or adjustable carrier. A baby's body is not adjusted
to the cyclic pattern that is a part of running and jogging.
This motion can do damage to the baby's neck, spine and/or
brain.
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