Ellen’s Story: Putting Safety First for My Little One

I’m Ellen Rahn. My son, Evan, is turning 2 in October. He’s curious, full of energy, and every day with him feels like an adventure but also a reminder that I need to keep safety at the top of everything I do, especially since we live on a small family farm. Some of the things I’ve learned (and still learning) come from experience. Others come from resources like Cultivate Safety, which has been a lifesaver for planning how to keep Evan safe while letting him explore and learn.

A Day on the Farm — With Safety in Mind

It was just after sunrise. I needed to check the new fencing we put up, move some tools, and do the usual chores. Evan loves coming along, so I’ve made a habit: before we head outside, I do a “safety sweep.” I check for loose tools, open gates, where the animals are, whether there’s anything wet or slippery, where the ladders are leaning, etc.

That morning, Evan toddled toward a ladder leaning against the barn. My heart sank: I know that toddlers are prone to falls from heights or ladders, and injury risks like being kicked or trampled by livestock. I scooped him up, carried him away from the ladder, and moved the ladder to a more secure location. Then I set him down in a safe, fenced-in area with a little pile of dirt to explore — his favorite — while I finished the task nearby. He laughed, digging with his tiny hands.

If you’re a farm parent like me, these resources have been especially helpful:

• Cultivate Safety – Practical, research-based tools for keeping kids safe on farms.
• National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety – Safety guidelines, training, and resources for farm families.