When New York Fashion Week comes around every year, we are excited for celebrity-spotting and seeing all the styles, from classic to wild. As a parent, your top fashion concern may be finding your child a shirt that doesn’t have juice stains on it or convincing them that they can’t wear the batman costume again. Of course, not every day is a struggle — children’s clothing is so cute and fun! It can also be rewarding to watch your little one develop their own sense of style. Whether you have a junior fashionista in the family or kids young enough to wear whatever you choose, it is important to consider safety when dressing youngsters. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
1. Drawstrings Are a Don’t
We are used to seeing drawstrings on hoodies and coats, but drawstrings pose a safety threat to kids because they can get caught in playground equipment, fences, and vehicle doors. The Consumer Product and Safety Commission actually banned clothing manufacturers from making children’s clothing with drawstrings, so you shouldn’t see them in stores.1 However, keep an eye out for drawstrings on hand-me-downs or in thrift stores. If you do have any clothing with drawstrings at home, remove the strings before putting it on your child.
2. Sleep Stylishly and Safely
You may have a favorite oversized t-shirt that you love to sleep in, but stick with pajamas when it comes to children’s nightwear. PJs for kids should fit snugly because loose material can catch fire more easily. Loose PJ bottoms or long nightgowns can also be a tripping hazard. Buy your kids well-fitted pajamas made from fire-resistant material so you can both sleep soundly.
3. Put Your Best Foot Forward
Good shoes are the foundation of a great outfit, but it’s about more than just looks when it comes to kid’s shoes. First and foremost, make sure kids have the right size shoes — we know it can be hard to keep up when they grow so fast, but shoes that aren’t the right size can lead to dangerous trips and falls. Look for non-skid soles and opt for velcro or slip-on shoes until your little one has mastered tying laces on their own (practice at home until they are ready for school or the playground.)
4. Cute Cold Weather Safety
When winter comes, it can be even more of a challenge to wrangle kids into the appropriate gear. Remember that little fingers, toes, and ears have delicate skin that is susceptible to frostbite. Letting your child choose their own winter accessories can make them more excited to put them on. Hats with animal ears or sparkly mittens are great, and bright colors are safer because they contribute to visibility.
5. When it Comes to Sports Safety, Feel Free to Overdress
There is no such thing as too many accessories when it comes to sports gear safety. Even if your child isn’t in organized sports, keep knee pads and elbow pads on hand for ice skating and other outdoor fun. If you do have young athletes in the house, talk to their coach about what safety gear they recommend. See more sports injury prevention tips.
Stay Safe With Dr.STITCH
We hope your wardrobe is cute and cozy and your family stays safe! At Dr.STITCH, we offer 24/7/365 immediate care for treatment of lacerations, burns, complex wounds, facial trauma, and hand injuries from the experienced surgeons at Long Island Plastic Surgical Group. Learn more about how our service works and download our Contact Card to your phone.
1 The Consumer Product and Safety Commission. Drawstrings Not Allowed. Available: https://onsafety.cpsc.gov/blog/2012/05/08/drawstrings-not-allowed/ Accessed January 16, 2020.