How Can I Reduce Falls for a 19–24-Month-Old?

Why are falls common at this age?

At 19–24 months, children walk, begin to run, climb onto chairs, and move quickly toward things they want.

Toddlers are still developing balance and may fall while exploring or changing direction.

Focus on reducing falls from heights and preventing heavy objects from tipping over.

How can I make stairs safer?

Fit suitable safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs and secure them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Choose a gate that your child cannot easily open or dislodge. At the top of stairs, use a gate fixed to the wall.

A gate does not replace adult supervision when your child is near stairs.

What should I do around windows and balconies?

Use properly fitted window guards or restrictors where appropriate; a fly screen or insect screen will not prevent a fall.

Move chairs, sofas, and other climbing aids away from windows and balcony railings.

Keep balcony doors secured and supervise closely whenever your child is in the area.

How do I prevent furniture from tipping?

Anchor bookcases, dressers, and TV stands to the wall using appropriate hardware.

Toddlers may pull drawers or climb shelves, so consider how furniture is arranged as well as whether drawers are locked.

Store heavier items low and keep toys that attract climbing off the top of furniture.

What precautions help on high surfaces?

A child on a bed, sofa, changing surface, or other raised place can fall in a moment.

Keep a hand on your child when they are on a high surface, and gather supplies before you begin.

If you need to step away, take your child down to a safe place first.

How can I reduce slips and climbing falls?

Secure loose rugs, clear toys from walkways, and choose footwear that is not slippery.

Keep walking and play areas as uncluttered as you can.

Offer safe, age-appropriate places to climb with close supervision instead of relying only on repeated warnings.

What should I look for at playgrounds?

Choose equipment suited to your child’s age and current abilities.

Stay close on steps, slides, and climbing equipment, and discourage use of equipment that is too high or difficult.

A soft, impact-absorbing surface can reduce injury risk if a fall occurs, but it cannot prevent every injury.

When should I seek medical help after a fall?

Call 999 or go to A&E if your child loses consciousness, has a seizure, vomits repeatedly, becomes unusually sleepy, is difficult to wake, or behaves very differently.

Other concerning signs include worsening headache, confusion, weakness, trouble walking, unequal pupils, or fluid or blood from the ears or nose.

For urgent advice after a less serious head injury, use NHS 111.

What can I do today?

Check stair gates, window protections, and furniture anchors.

Move chairs and tables away from windows and balcony railings.

Clear loose rugs and toys from paths your child uses.

After a head injury, get urgent help for repeated vomiting, a seizure, loss of consciousness, difficulty waking, or unusual behaviour.