Packing up and flying or driving with small children can be stressful enough. You certainly do not need to add hotel hassles once you arrive at your destination. Staying in a family oriented hotel will help, but it won't eliminate all of the headaches. To make your trip a bit easier, be sure to prepare and make your needs clear when you call to place your reservations.
Infants need many bottles and toddlers and preschoolers need a steady supply of juice and milk. Arrange for a room with a refrigerator so you can have plenty ofcold beverages on hand. It's also helpful for storing fruit and other snacks.
Having a refrigerator in our room has saved us time, tears and money. Mom and Dad didn't have to wake up early to run to a hotel shop for an expensive snack of juice and crackers for a hungry little one.
Arrange to have a crib set up in your room. It will save you from having to bring your own. Be sure to ask if the cribs meet federal safety regulations. If the hotel cannot guarantee that they do, bring your own portable crib or playpen.
When you arrive be sure to check for any safety hazards, such as a soft mattress, side bars spaced more than 2 3/4 inches apart, decorative adornments that can snag clothing and be sure the sheet fits tightly. Be sure the crib is placed away from heaters, windows, doors and dressers.
Some hotels carry toddler beds, but many don't. If you will be placing your toddler in a full size hotel bed, be sure to pack a guard rail.
Pack outlet protectors. Cover up all the outlets as soon as you arrive.
Check the windows for dangling cords. If you find any, wrap them up out of your child's reach.
Hotel tubs often do not have nonskid surfaces. Bring along a non-slip mat for bathtime. Also bring any covers you have for your tub faucets and knobs.
Bring along some safety latches for closet doors and dressers. Covers for doorknobs will keep little ones out of the bathroom and closet. The removable safety latches that loop on the outside of drawers and cabinets will keep your kiddo from pinching their fingers.
You know your child best. Sit down and make a list of all the things your child gets into at home and while visiting. Be prepared to take the appropriate safety measures during your stay and pack whatever baby proofing gear you'll need.
About the Author:
Laurie Neal is the mother of one and former co-owner in the website 20ish Parents.
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