Playpen for a child: pros and cons

A playpen can be either a fence that is simply placed on the floor, or an object like cots, only without an orthopedic mattress (there are also 2 in 1 models that combine a crib and playpen).

The very concept of the arena is heard and is associated with childhood by many. But is it really worth buying it for your child? Consider the pros and cons of such a purchase.

The pluses of the arena:

1. Creates a safe space for the child. Inside the playpen, you don't have to worry about the baby, there will be only those items that the parents consider necessary.

2. Provides more space than a cot. The kid can crawl, many toys are placed inside the playpen.

3. Mobility. Usually, playpens are made quite mobile, they can be equipped even at a party.

4. Allows mom to rest or do her own thing. Even if the child begins to be capricious in the arena, you will be sure that he will not get into trouble in upset feelings while you turn away.

5. Distinguishes between a crib as a place to sleep and a playpen as a place to play. If you put a baby to play in a crib, then it's hard to put him to sleep there: he perceives this place as connected with games and wakefulness.

6. The playpen allows the child to safely learn to stand up and walk. Of course, in the process of development, the baby can grab onto anything to get up and stay on his feet. And often these can be potentially hazardous items.

7. The playpen creates the feeling of a "house" and a baby's own corner, even in a small apartment. All children love secluded spaces from early childhood. The arena in this role will be very useful.

What are the disadvantages of the arena?

1. An imaginary sense of security. While the baby is very tiny, he will really be inside the arena. But after a few months, he will get back on his feet and get to both outlets and sharp corners.

2. Only useful for a few months. When your baby is very tiny, you will rather want to hold it in your arms, carry it in a sling, or put it in a rocking chair.

The playpen will be useful for 2-3 months between "I began to sit" and "I began to walk", further this fence will not stop and suit the child.

3. Cost. A quality item made of hypoallergenic materials and without an unpleasant odor will cost a lot of money, which is especially noticeable due to the short period of use.

4. Dimensions. A playpen can not fit into every interior, along with a bunch of other things and furniture related to a child.

5. Creates a sense of obstruction. If the baby is imprisoned in the arena for a long time every day, then he may feel unnecessary. And this greatly inhibits his emotional and physical development.

6. Reduces opportunities for environmental exploration. Indeed, it is very difficult to make a home completely safe for a child.

But if you do not allow him to deal with the objects of everyday life, study and make discoveries himself, this will only slow down his development and postpone the acquisition of important knowledge and skills.

You will also be interested to read:

• Do walkers, playpens and rocking chairs interfere with the child's development
• top 7 unnecessary things for a baby
• 6 worst baby gifts