EXPECTANT MOMS

• In the nursery, keep furniture away from windows, window cords and draperies. Cut all cords that attach at the bottom and form a loop. And purchase a tie-down device for cords that cannot be cut.
• Everyone will start offering you hand-me-downs, including cribs. Antique cribs are never an option and even a crib that seems fairly new should only be used if you have the instructions, make sure it is properly assembled, and check to see whether it has been recalled at www.cpsc.gov.
• More crib tips-by the numbers: The slats on a crib should be no farther apart than 2-3/8 inches. If you can fit a soda can through any of the slats, the opening is too big. And avoid cribs with decorative knobs or corner posts. Corner posts should be less than 1/16 of an inch high and should be flush with the headboard and footboard.
• Pick a bassinet that is sturdy and safe. Does it fold? If so, make sure it is locked firmly in place before you put your newborn in it. And stock up on bassinet sheets. You should never use crib sheets or adult sheets in a bassinet because they will not fit securely. (Check out Graco's Web site for some great bassinet and crib options.)

MOMS WITH BABIES

• Bring your baby into the bathroom when you are taking a shower, securing her in a car seat or a bouncer seat - don't forget to strap her in every time..
• Look through your little one's toys for recalled items. Simply go to www.cpsc.gov and check the recalls. Note: Before using the product again check with the manufacturer.
• Rethink how you lay out items out on your bathroom and kitchen counters. Seemingly harmless everyday items such as vitamins and plastic bags are a hazard for a baby.

MOM'S WITH TODDLERS

• Store some toys and crafts where your child can safely get them on his own. You don't need to batten down everything.just almost everything!
• Be sure your toddler knows the difference between the toys he is allowed to remove on his own and ones that are off limits. He should know he is never allowed to climb bookcases or shelving units or stand on furniture to reach his toys. Telling him this doesn't replace adult supervision, of course, but it allows you to give him a sense of ownership of his play space.
• Table bumpers may seem like a nuisance or something you need to use only while your child learns to crawl and walk. But you should continue to use these on your tables now that your child has mastered walking. Running and jumping are around the corner!
• You should have installed window guards before you even brought your newborn home, but if you haven't, do so now. One day your child may decide to redesign the room and move furniture closer to the window to get a better glimpse of the outside world.