Hot Stove, Freeze Feet!

Once upon a time, delicious soup was bubbling on the kitchen stove. The child walked near the counter, but Mommy pointed to the red floor mat: "Hot stove zone! Freeze feet!" The child stopped feet immediately right at the edge of the mat. "The stove, the oven, and the kettle are HOT—only grown-up hands touch them!" explained Mommy. The child nodded wisely. To be safe, the child sat at the kitchen table with crayons, coloring a picture while Mommy cooked safely. Knowing the boundary kept little fingers safe from burns. When the soup was served cool in the toddler bowl, it was safe, delicious, and enjoyed without worry.