Missing Something? Check the Trash!
By Contributing Editor: Pamela Gifford

At some point around 15 months of age, little eyes begin to see the garbage can as a mysterious thingamajig that he can make magic with by putting stuff in there and making them disappear!  Over the last few months I have found a trove of treasures tucked inside the can along with dried up noodles, used tissues, and gum wrappers.  It is becoming habit now that I actively look into the garbage can before throwing anything else in.  I've found stuffed animals, clothes, toys, the handle to my duster, books, and anything else my son could get his hands on just thrown away as if they didn't matter anymore.  Nothing like crusted old noodles clinging to the fur of a stuffed animal to realize that this particular toddler fascination isn't all that fun. 

By the way, I'm missing a left sandal.  It was my favorite pair of sandals.  Even though, I'm quite certain now that my toddler has thrown it in the trash at some point when I didn't notice, I still can't get rid of the right sandal.

So how do you keep your toddler from throwing things away?  If you have a large enough pantry, it might be wise to consider closing up your garbage can inside and installing a child proof door knob.  You can also use a box or a chair to set the garbage can up in so it will be too high for little hands.  Yes, it looks strange and unsightly now but it won't sit up there forever and you can rest in the knowledge that your favorite shoes won't end up inside.  Another idea would be to get some kind of lock for your garbage can lid but that idea is not practical for many households.

If none of these options are to your liking, then you will just need to keep a close eye on your trash.  You won't be able to catch all of the things she throws, such as the baby's pacifier, that can fall between the cracks and end up in the bottom of the can.  The trash would probably be long gone before you realize what happened to it.

This will also keep things that are meant for your trash from ending up back out into the floor or *gasp!* into your toddler's mouth.  Not only do toddlers throw unnecessary items away, they love pilfering at the yucky treasure inside and then strategically placing it all over the house.

But don't worry.  This is a phase that will go away as your toddler nears the preschool years.  Me and my shoes will be happy when my son grows out of this.