Kuala Lumpur, 4 February (TheCapitalPost) – It is heart wrenching to read about another forgotten-baby syndrome case, this time in Seremban, where a toddler was reportedly found dead, believed to be left in the car, while his mother went to work.
The issue has reared its ugly head again after being quiet for some time. I for one do not have the stomach for these tragic events. However, regardless of how painful or disheartening the news, we need to put a stop to this – collectively.
Let this be the last case and let it serve as a clarion wake-up call for all parents and parents to be. Please be reminded that that the safety of the children is of paramount importance.
These are my personal methods to ensure the worst does not happen.
Be in frequent and constant communication with your spouse about the whereabouts of your baby or toddler. Case example, if both parents drive separately to work, ensure the spouse, who has just dropped off the child at the babysitter, day care or kindergarten, immediately calls the other half to inform them that the child is safely dropped off.
It seems a hassle to do so, but trust me, it goes a long way. Make it a habit. Once it becomes a daily routine, any break in tradition will serve as a red flag and raise concerns for your other half.
Another method is – depending on the position of your baby carrier seat (rear facing) – to install a baby car seat mirror, enabling the driver to look into the vehicle’s rearview mirror and at the same time, monitor the baby in the car seat. This nifty and affordable gadget is retailed affordably online.
The age-old method of placing valuable items such as laptops or handbags, nearby the child car seat , is another method no doubt, but your overall awareness of the situation, is still the best However, it still serves as an effective way.
-Advertisement-
We can rely on gadgets, habits and even technology to remind us, but the sole responsibility for the safety of our kids is ours to carry alone. There are no two ways about it.
Be always alert to the whereabouts of your child. You owe it to your children. You brought them into this world.
Parenting isn’t easy, we are deprived of sleep, stressed out almost every other day, generally tired with responsibilities at home and at work.
Try to overcome this, work out a timetable with your spouse to ensure the best for both parent and child.
Some might argue that a parents love for their child, is the only true love. So, be responsible, let’s keep the children safe.
written by Yeap Ming Liong
-TheCapitalPost
