Creating DIY projects with your children can be a fun way to bond and spend time together. It can also be a great way to teach children to follow instructions, think creatively, and solve problems. However, you must keep safety in mind as well.
Of course, parents should always supervise their kids when they are working with tools, but specific DIY projects pose additional risks. If any accidents occur during the project, don’t hesitate to bring your kid to the nearest urgent care center to get looked at. That said, here are ten hazards to watch out for when you’re working on DIY projects with kids:
1. Ladders
Working on DIY projects often requires the use of ladders, whether it’s something as simple as balancing along a stepladder or climbing up to the roof for a quick repair job. Ladders can be tricky, and it’s easy to lose your footing and fall if you don’t know what you’re doing.
When using ladders to reach higher areas, ensure that the ladder is fully extended before climbing up. To ensure that the ladder will hold your weight, always stay near the bottom of the ladder when climbing up. When stepping down, keep one hand on the ladder at all times to make sure you have a good grip.
2. Paint
Paint can get messy quickly, especially if you’re using it outside or in an area with lots of wind. If your kids are helping you paint, make sure they wear old clothes that they don’t mind getting dirty. Make sure your kids know not to play with wet paint and that you wipe down any surfaces after you are finished painting. This way, your tools will last longer, and there won’t be any dangerous paint spills.
3. Hammers
Hammers are one of the most commonly used tools in DIY projects. But unfortunately, they’re also the leading cause of injuries among DIYers. Kids should never play with a hammer because it can be very easy to lose your grip — especially for smaller children, who may have trouble holding the weight of a large tool.
4. Knives
Sharp objects such as knives pose a danger if kids mistake them for toys and start throwing them around or attempting to juggle them. Knives should never be used in public spaces and should always be stored safely after being used. So, if you ever need knives during your project, make sure to keep them out of sight and reach from children.
5. Saw blades
Saws are among the leading causes of DIY injuries. If you’re using a saw to try to cut something too thin, such as a ruler or dowel, your saw may slip and slice into you or someone else. Make sure to use the right saw for the job and cut only one thing at a time if possible. Plus, if you can avoid having a saw at all, that’s even better since saws are the most dangerous power tool to use.
6. Drills
Drilling can be tricky because it requires both hands, leaving you less room to steady yourself. If your child wants to help you drill something into place, make sure they don’t stand directly behind you. Drills are also the cause of many DIY accidents involving home remodeling, which can result in injury not only to children but also to adults.
7. Hot glue guns
Hot glue guns are a standard tool found in most craft rooms, but they can be very dangerous if they aren’t used properly. If your kids are young, they should never use a glue gun without adult supervision — and the trigger should always be in the off position before you hand it over to your child.
8. Lighters
One of the first things kids learn how to use is a lighter because most children’s rooms contain candles of some sort. While you should always keep lighters out of reach of young children, it’s also good to teach them about the proper way to use one — especially if they want to help with lighting birthday or holiday candles.
9. Long tools
Long tools such as brooms and mops pose a particular danger to kids. It’s easy for small children to try to stand on them or grab from the middle of the tool, leading to falls. Keeping long, tall items in high storage areas is one way to avoid potential injuries. But if your child needs something from that high storage area, make sure they ask an adult to get it for them.
10. Scissors
Small children often love to play with scissors, even if they aren’t being used to cut anything! To avoid injuries, teach your kids about the proper way to hold and use scissors, so there won’t be any accidents or mishaps later.
When it comes to DIY projects with kids, there are a lot of potential hazards that can occur. However, by being aware of the common dangers, you can keep your child safe while they are helping you out in the workshop. Stay safe and have fun!
