Activity

• Physical Risks:
  • Choking hazard: Ensure all sensory items are large enough to not be a choking hazard for young children.
  • Supervision: Maintain close supervision at all times, especially when the child is interacting with small items like bells or ornaments.
  • Candle safety: Keep the scented candle out of reach of the child to prevent burns or ingestion.
  • Soft blanket: Make sure the blanket or mat is clean, soft, and free of any small objects or loose threads that could pose a choking hazard.
• Emotional Risks:
  • Overstimulation: Watch for signs of overstimulation such as fussiness, avoiding eye contact, or crying, and be prepared to end the activity if needed.
  • Respect boundaries: Allow the child to explore at their own pace and avoid overwhelming them with too many sensory items at once.
• Environmental Risks:
  • Quiet area: Choose a quiet, distraction-free area for the activity to help the child focus and feel secure.
  • Safe surroundings: Ensure the environment is free of hazards such as sharp objects, electrical outlets, or unstable furniture.

Warnings and precautions for the Sensory Holiday Exploration activity:

• Supervise closely, especially when the child is handling small items like bells or ornaments to prevent choking hazards.
• Keep the scented candle out of reach to avoid burns or ingestion; consider using a child-safe alternative like a scented fabric.
• Watch for any signs of overstimulation or distress in the child, such as crying, turning away, or increased agitation, and respond promptly.
• Be cautious with sensory items that may have sharp edges or small parts that could pose a risk to the child's safety.
• Ensure the environment is free of allergens that the child may be sensitive to, such as strong scents or materials they could be allergic to.
• Monitor the child's reactions to different textures and sounds to prevent sensory overload or discomfort.
• Avoid leaving the child unattended on the blanket to prevent falls or accidents, especially if they are at a stage where they are starting to crawl or move around.

• Be prepared for potential choking hazards with small items like bells or ornaments. Keep a close eye on the child and remove any small objects they may try to put in their mouth.
• If a child shows signs of choking (difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing), stay calm and perform age-appropriate first aid. For infants under 1 year, administer back blows and chest thrusts. Seek medical help if the object is not dislodged.
• Watch out for any sharp edges on sensory items that could cause cuts or scratches. If a child gets a minor cut, wash the area with soap and water, apply pressure to stop bleeding, and cover with a sterile bandage.
• Keep the scented candle out of reach to prevent burns or accidental ingestion. In case of a minor burn, cool the affected area under running water for at least 10 minutes and cover with a sterile dressing.
• Monitor the child for any signs of allergic reactions to scents or materials used in the activity. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Have antihistamines or an EpiPen available if needed.
• Ensure the environment is free of tripping hazards to prevent falls. If a child falls and hits their head, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and monitor for signs of a concussion such as vomiting, dizziness, or changes in behavior.