The H.S.F.B Issue: High-Speed Flying Bottles and Other Thrown Objects

Dear Dr.MOZ,

I’d love it if you would ask the GoodFather what to do about my toddler throwing things. The flying objects are pretty easy to handle when we are home, but it can be a real nightmare when we are out in the world. He seems to be developing a strong throwing arm and a flying sippy cup or high-speed toy can really do some damage.

Thanks,
Chris

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Hello Chris,

There really isn’t anything quite like a full sippy cup in the back of the head while driving down the highway. Throwing objects is normal for toddlers developing their motor skills, but there certainly is a time and a place for everything. Here are a few ideas and a couple smart products to help minimize the carnage during the next trip:

1. Toddlers Throw Things: First, you need to understand that there’s really nothing you can do to completely stop a toddler from throwing things. It might be frustrating at times, but it is normal for toddlers. Once you accept this fact of life, you are ready for the next step.
2. Plan Ahead: You can do a lot to help yourself when packing for the outside world by only bringing soft toys. A small stuffed animal will do a lot less damage than a wooden toy or hard plastic gadget. This seems obvious, but we tend to pack the “favorite” toys out of instinct and many of them could be heavy. You are probably wondering what to do about bottles and sippy cups right? If so, see the next step.
3. Bottles and Sippy Cups: In the off chance you haven’t see these yet, let me introduce you to The Bottle Tamer. Not only is this simple little invention an easy and safe way to cut down on ugly occurrences including H.S.F.B.s (High-Speed Flying Bottles) in the stroller, but they also work in the car seat and the high chair. Speaking of highchair, see step three.
4. Dinner Time: I know you were interested in throwing things while on the move, but the list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning flying food. There’s nothing quite as satisfying to a toddler than throwing an entire plate or bowl of food across the room. To help give parents the winning edge, products like the stay-put cutlery and bowl sets help keep airborne food to a minimum thanks to suction cups and other smart design features. This may not keep your little one from chucking the food directly from the plate, but rationing the food throughout the meal should help keep losses down.

Thanks for the great question Chris. I hope that one of our tips helps to save a meal, or maybe even a few cracks to the skull from an H.S.F.B!

Your favorite family man,
The GoodFather