Enjoying Candles Safely with Kids: A Guide for Parents

Candles can create a warm and cozy atmosphere in any home, but if you have children, it's important to take extra precautions to keep them safe. While candles are generally safe when used properly, they can pose potential hazards to curious little ones. In this post, we'll take a closer look at candles and children, and offer some tips on how to safely enjoy candles in your home.

1. Keep Candles Out of Reach: The first and most important rule when it comes to burning candles around children is to keep them out of reach. Children are naturally curious and may be drawn to the flickering flame or the scent of the candle. To avoid accidents, make sure to keep candles on high shelves or in areas where your child cannot reach them.

2. Choose Soy or Beeswax Candles: Another important consideration is the type of candle you choose. Traditional paraffin wax candles release harmful chemicals when burned, which can be dangerous for both humans and animals. Soy or beeswax candles, on the other hand, are non-toxic and do not release harmful chemicals when burned. They are a safer option for burning around children.

3. Educate Your Child: As important as it is to choose the right candle, it's equally important to educate your child about candle safety. Teach them about the dangers of playing with candles and explain that candles should never be touched or moved when lit. Show them how to properly blow out a candle and emphasize the importance of never leaving a burning candle unattended. By teaching your child about candle safety, you can help them understand the potential hazards and reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Keep an Eye on Your Child: Even if you take all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. It's important to always keep an eye on your child when burning candles, and never leave them unattended. If you need to leave the room, make sure to blow out the candle first.

5. Supervise Your Child: Even with all the necessary precautions in place, accidents can still happen. It's important to always supervise your child when candles are burning in your home. Make sure your child understands that candles are not toys and should only be used with adult supervision. If you need to leave the room, extinguish the candle first. With a little extra attention and care, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for your child while still enjoying the warmth and beauty of candles in your home.

In conclusion, candles can be enjoyed safely around children as long as you take the necessary precautions. Keep candles out of reach, choose non-toxic candles, avoid strong scents, keep an eye on your child, and teach candle safety. With a little extra care and attention, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of candles while keeping your child safe and happy.