Thudguard

We got a helmet for Elijah early this week. It's called a Thudguard and it's intended for kids eight months to two years who are learning to walk.

In the past, I would have thought such a product was crazy. All kids fall, all are going to bump their heads and I've always figured that it was part of the learning process. That is, until I had a child who already has a severe injury to his head… We'd definitely like to prevent any more "owies" to that precious little noggin of his. Also, since Elijah's protective extension isn't fully developed (yet), he is more apt to fall and hurt himself. I don't foresee him wearing a helmet forever, just until he gets steadier and less likely to hurt himself with falls. As I understand it, protective extension first develops to the front, then to the sides, and finally to the back. He seems to have the protection to the front down (which is good since that's the way he usually falls) and will usually catch himself to the side - it's the protection when he falls back that worries us the most, as he doesn't seem to have it at all. In other words, when he falls backwards, he doesn't even seem to attempt to use his hands to protect himself. Fortunately, he usually keeps his head up when he does fall back so he at least tries to protect his head – or he'll stick out his butt to absorb the fall. I know he'll get there with more practice, but in the meantime we think the helmet is a good idea.

I have to admit, it was a bit painful when I realized the Thudguard (which is intended for infants) was a bit too big for our little guy. It was just a reminder that Elijah does indeed have a small head and as much as I'd like to hide from that fact, it's true. With some minor adjustments, the helmet fits fine.

Anyway, as far as helmets go, this one is really cute. It's the kind of cute that Elijah will look at pictures later in life and say, "Mom, really? Why would you make me wear that?" Ahh, the joys of being a parent. :)

Of course, Elijah hated it at first...(mommy is so mean!)

Isn't he cute? I think he looks like an adorable little bear.

What I love about these photos, too, is that they show how active he is these days. It's so great!

He even got to show off his new "hat" to Great-grandpa Lloyd (and Great-grandma Norma) today.

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