Philly parents share tips on keeping children safe in older homes with childproofing challenges.
In the bustling neighborhoods of Philadelphia, many parents face an increasingly urgent challenge: balancing the beauty of their historic homes with the safety needs of their young children. The emotional toll of owning a home that is also a potential hazard weighs heavily, particularly when parents start envisioning their toddler’s every misstep.
Caitlin Martin, a mother from Wissahickon, expressed this sentiment, noting how her perspective has shifted since becoming a parent. Features in her home that once captured her admiration now trigger concern as she envisions the hazards they pose to her 20-month-old son, Gates. Stairs, intricate molding, and other charming details evoke fears of trips and falls, transforming her once fond recollections into sources of anxiety.
The cost of childproofing a home can be significant, adding financial strain to the already stressful parenting journey. According to HomeAdvisor, the average expenditure for U.S. households reaching nearly 0, with Philadelphia residents facing average costs closer to 0. This escalation in expenditure is largely due to the unique architectural features present in many Philadelphia homes, which often complicate the implementation of standard childproofing solutions.
A report from the National Trust’s Preservation Green Lab indicates that the average age of homes in Philadelphia is around 93 years, nearly three decades older than the national average. This aging infrastructure poses additional challenges for child safety. As many of these residences were built before modern child safety measures became commonplace, features such as molded staircases, exposed radiators, and atypical layouts often complicate childproofing efforts.
Parents, such as Anne Maija from South Philly, acknowledge that navigating the terrain of childproofing in historic homes is a distinct challenge compared to suburban counterparts. The questions of adaptability and fitting safety devices to old features are common, as the idiosyncrasies of these homes, like their design and age, often do not lend themselves easily to contemporary solutions.
As safety experts continue to address these specific issues, common childproofing solutions prevalent in newer homes may require creative modifications when implemented in Philadelphia’s storied properties. From stairs to railings and cords, parents are learning to adapt their environments to enhance safety, ensuring the home remains a nurturing space while preserving its historic charm.
As the city moves forward, the dialogue surrounding childhood safety and historic home preservation will likely evolve, highlighting the need for both thoughtful parenthood and responsible stewardship of Philadelphia’s architectural heritage.
