Five Tips for Trimming a Toddler-Friendly Christmas Tree

Tips for Decorating a Worry-Free Christmas Tree A Christmas tree's twinkling lights, colorful decorations and tempting presents are simply irresistible to small children -- but toddlers and tree trimmings aren't always a perfect mix. Here are some tips to help busy parents decorate a worry-free Christmas tree that's safer for little ones without giving up holiday style.

Tip 1 - Avoid Toppling Trees: Tipping trees can be inconvenient and even dangerous. To keep Christmas trees upright, start with a sturdy base that measures at least half of the full width of the tree. Then add extra support by running string or fishing line from the upper part of the trunk to an anchor on the wall, such as a sturdy picture hook. This easy trick helps keep the tree upright if children tug on branches or ornaments.

Tip 2 - Be Bright with Lights: Wrap light strands close to the tree trunk and out of reach of little hands to protect children from the many hazards lights pose. Also consider using a power strip with a safety cover to easily and safely manage multiple light strands. On pre-lit artificial trees, check that lights are well secured and that bulbs are intact.

Tip 3 - Swag Trees in Kid-Safe Style: Tinsel and garland swags twisting around the tree can pose a tipping hazard. Instead of winding trees in yards of garland, consider draping it in smaller sections that, if pulled, can come away without bringing the tree with it.

Tip 4 - Trim with Toddlers in Mind: Don't forego hanging treasured or fragile ornaments in the name of safety, just hang them out of reach. Use more durable, kid-friendlier ornaments such as wooden or plastic ornaments and ribbon bows lower on the tree. Keep ornaments in place by securing them with ribbon or stretch cord instead of ornament hangers.

Tip 5 - Remember, Size Matters: Since choking on small objects is among the most common household dangers for young children, it's good to remember this childproofing rule of thumb when trimming the tree; if it can fit inside a cardboard paper towel tube, a toddler can swallow it. Secure small ornaments and those with small pieces high in the tree and avoid using fishhook-style ornament hangers which can become lodged in the throat if swallowed.

Remember that safety never takes a holiday, but a little creative planning can make the Christmas tree a worry-free centerpiece in any busy family home. Now for childproofing the gifts… that's a challenge.

Find more family-friendly home decorating tips, ideas and how-to videos on www.KidSmartLiving.com