Babies And Containers
Babies And Containers
Marketing to new moms and expecting moms is at an all time high. There are so many things that catch your eye, make life seemingly easier, or are made to feel like you need to have them. I promise you, simple is better. A blanket on the floor and a few toys is really all you need for playtime.
This is one of the most controversial topics, especially with parents of babies I am seeing in physical therapy. Please keep in mind that this is my personal and professional opinion on the subject.
As a parent myself, especially with two so close together, I can confidently say that you will need something - some type of container - to put your baby in for a short amount of time here and there.
Here are some ways that you can use containers while promoting your baby’s development:
Limit use of any container to 10-15 minutes.
Use this for times when you really “need it” instead of a go to every time they are awake and playing.
Encourage plenty of floor time
Tummy time is amazing, but the time your baby spends on his or her back is valuable, too.
If you are wanting to keep your baby safe from toddler hands or pets, use a pack n play for a firm flat surface, while you know they are in a safe spot.
Firm and flat surfaces are better. Imagine laying in a hammock or bean bag vs on a firmer surface - you don’t really move your head or body when in a super soft, cradled position. But on a firm surface, you will turn your head side to side and move your body more because of the freedom for movement.
Be mindful of your baby’s head position
Try to make sure your baby’s head is in midline to prevent any preference to tilt or turn their head from forming.
This will help to avoid a flat spot from forming on one side of your baby’s head
Try not to put your baby in a position that he or she is not developmentally ready to be doing
However, you can practice a sitting or standing position with your baby. Using your hands to help your baby into this position is different than setting them in a bumbo seat or exersaucer, where they don’t have to use their own muscles as much.
My Thoughts From A Parent Perspective
We had this bouncer that we got when Marley was born. It was great to use in small doses when we needed it. If I were to choose a piece of equipment over others, a bouncer would probably be the one thing I would pick. As your baby becomes more mobile, just continue to place them on the floor. They don’t need to go into bumbo seats, jumpers, exersaucers or walkers to promote development. The more they can play on a flat surface or playmat, the better! This can help to avoid toe walking or other preferences.
Sometimes you need to go to the bathroom in peace or get dinner started and your baby is not napping, not wanting to lay flat on the floor, and you don’t have helping hands to hold them - I get it. Just think, everything in small doses is okay and simple is always the best.
If you are looking for ways to make tummy time easier, check out this post.