What is a priority concern when caring for infants?

Prioritizing safety issues is a fundamental concern when caring for infants due to their vulnerability and limited ability to protect themselves. Infants are at a critical developmental stage where they are not only physically weak but also unable to anticipate dangers. Ensuring a safe environment involves addressing potential hazards such as sharp objects, small choking risks, and unsafe sleep practices. This priority is crucial for their health and well-being, as infants are dependent on caregivers for protection against harm.

While fostering independence, engaging them in complex procedures, and encouraging exploration are important aspects of development, none of these can be prioritized over ensuring safety. Ensuring that an infant's environment is safe allows for healthy exploration and development to take place, making it a foundational responsibility of caregivers.