Watching your child take their first steps, run with excitement, and climb with curiosity is one of parenting’s greatest joys. Every wobble and tumble are part of their journey toward independence — but as caregivers know, these milestones can sometimes come with bumps and bruises.
While most falls are minor, some can lead to serious injuries. In fact, nearly 4,500 children under the age of 14 are hospitalized each year in Canada due to falls -- making them the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions for kids in this age group.
The good news? Safe steps start early. A few safety adjustments around your home can go a long way in helping your little one stay safe while they grow, play, and discover the world around them.
How and Where Kids Fall as They Grow
As children grow, their curiosity and physical abilities change—sometimes seemingly overnight! That means the places and ways they fall change too.
- Infants and young toddlers are most likely to fall at home, especially from furniture like beds, change tables, highchairs, or down the stairs.
- Older toddlers tend to fall while moving around the house — walking, running, climbing or crawling.
- Children aged 5 to 9 are more likely to fall at playgrounds, where climbing and active play are part of the fun.
Understanding how fall risks change with age helps you take early steps to prevent injuries. Supervision is always important, no matter your child’s age or stage.
Tips to Prevent Falls at Home
Home should be a safe place for children to learn, grow, and explore. Yet, most fall-related injuries among children under five happen at home — often because everyday spaces aren’t designed for children’s developing bodies and abilities.
Safe steps start early. By making a few simple changes, you can help prevent serious injuries and support your child’s healthy development.
See the World Through Their Eyes
Get down to your child’s level to spot potential fall risks. What looks safe to an adult may be a hazard to a crawling baby or curious toddler.
Buckle Up Every Time
Always buckle children into highchairs, strollers, and swings. Even for short periods. Unbuckled children can wiggle, slide, or fall out.
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Keep Car Seats and Carriers on the Floor
Never place car seats, or baby carriers on tables, counters, or furniture. Babies can tip over or fall from raised surfaces. The safest spot is always the floor.
Always Keep One Hand on Baby
When using a change table, always keep one hand on your baby even if safety straps are in place. Better yet, change diapers on the floor when possible.
Never use Baby Walkers
Baby walkers with wheels are banned for sale in Canada because they pose serious risks — including falls down stairs and access to unsafe areas. Choose stationary activity centres instead.
Use Baby Gates
Baby gates are one of the best tools to prevent falls on stairs but only when they’re used correctly.
✅ By 6 months, install a hardware-mounted gate at the top of stairs. These gates screw into the wall and are the most secure option.
✅ Use pressure-mounted gates at the bottom of stairs or in same-level areas.
✅ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully during installation.
✅ Place the lock on the side away from your child to make it harder for them to open
Once your child’s chin reaches the top of the gate or they turn two years old, it’s time to remove it. Children who can climb over gates are at greater risk of injury and may be ready for the next stage.
Keep Stairs and Floors Clear
Toys, shoes, laundry, and other clutter can become tripping hazards. Keep walking paths — especially stairs — clear to help prevent falls.
Make Furniture Safer
- Anchor heavy furniture like dressers, bookshelves, and cabinets to the wall.
- Use corner guards on sharp edges or temporarily remove risky items.
- Move your child to a toddler bed or mattress on the floor as soon as they begin to climb out of the crib.
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Falls are part of learning and growing but serious injuries don’t have to be. Safe steps start early, and every small change you make today helps build a safer tomorrow for your child.
More Resources
Visit www.childsafetylink.ca for more tips, resources, and support. Follow us on social media @childsafetylink.