From the essentials, such as a carseat or stroller, to the non-essentials (although many may disagree with that classification) like swings, bouncy seats, jumperoos, and more, most parents have plenty of options when it comes to finding a place to put a baby down. \u00a0But did you know that there is one place for your baby that trumps all the rest in terms of promoting baby\u2019s development, coordination, vision, and more? \u00a0Yes, it\u2019s true! \u00a0And it\u2019s free and almost always available. \u00a0If you guessed the floor, you are correct!<\/p>\n
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Certainly, there is a time and a place for other baby devices. \u00a0 The problem comes when baby devices become the norm, and floor time (including tummy time) becomes the exception. \u00a0The article referenced below, written by a pediatric physical therapist, recommends that babies spend only 30 minutes\u00a0per day<\/em>\u00a0in baby seats, swings, jumpers, etc. \u00a0Thirty minutes total! \u00a0All day. \u00a0That recommendation is a bit of a wake up call for this busy mom of 3!<\/p>\n You can read the article here:\u00a0Moving Away from Positioning Devices in 2017<\/a><\/p>\n So without getting too hung up on the numbers, let\u2019s talk about some alternative options that can help us strike a healthier balance between using these devices (or baby \u201ccontainers\u201d as they are often referred to in the medical community) and not:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In my opinion, this is an often underused baby gear powerhouse. \u00a0It allows you the developmental benefits of floor time while still providing safety (from older siblings, the dog, etc) and convenience (shower time, anyone?). \u00a0You can even use it for tummy time, provided you are supervising. \u00a0Yes, it takes up a good chunk of floor space, and maybe isn\u2019t always the most glamorous looking, but I have found it to be more than worth it. \u00a0In fact, I find it so helpful that I have two in my house. \u00a0One for each floor.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n While these require a little more supervision than a pack n\u2019 play, they can provide a fun and developmentally appropriate place for your baby to play that doesn\u2019t restrict movement. \u00a0These mats can be used for tummy time and babies can lay on their backs and observe, bat, and eventually grasp toys dangling from the soft arches above. \u00a0(Note: all of these actions are developmental milestones in and of themselves!) \u00a0Play gyms are easy to clean and are also portable (at least much more so than a Mamaroo or other similar seat) so you can easily move it from room to room or even throw it in the car when going to Grandma\u2019s house.<\/p>\n Strapping your baby to your chest can free up your hands so you can chase a toddler at the park or do some chores around the house, but there are other advantages. \u00a0You are in constant contact with your baby so you can respond easily to your baby\u2019s cues. \u00a0Your baby\u2019s close proximity may also naturally prompt more verbal communication with your baby as you talk about what you are doing or the things you see around you, and we know that verbal communication is essential for language development. \u00a0Also, babies can lift and move their heads around and work on head and neck control when being carried. \u00a0This cannot happen when a baby is lying on her back. \u00a0A quick google search on the benefits of babywearing will show you that these perks are just the tip of the iceberg.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to remember that baby wearing and all baby devices do come with safety warnings. \u00a0Follow the manufacturer\u2019s instructions on any product you use and check your baby regularly for proper positioning when babywearing. \u00a0More on that\u00a0here<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0here.<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you have concerns about your baby\u2019s developmental timeline, call us today or talk with your child\u2019s doctor about finding a pediatric therapy practice near you. \u00a0Our team is always ready to help!<\/p>\n <\/p>\nThe Almighty Pack N\u2019 Play<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Play Gyms\/ Activity Mats<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Baby Wearing<\/strong><\/h3>\n
FURTHER READING:<\/h4>\n