Playpen for a child: pros and cons

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

The very concept of an arena is well-known and many associate with childhood. But is it really worth buying it for your child? Consider the arguments for and against such a purchase.

Manege advantages:

1. Creates a safe space for the child. Inside the arena, you can not worry about the baby, there will be only those items that parents deem necessary.

2. Gives more space than a crib. The kid can crawl, many toys are placed inside the arena.

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

4. Gives mom a break or mind her own business. Even if the child starts acting up in the arena, you will be sure that he will not get into trouble in upset feelings while you turn your back.

5. Separates the crib as a place to sleep and playpen as a place to play. If you put the baby to play in the crib, then it’s hard to put him to sleep there: he perceives this place as associated 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 dangerous items.

7. The playpen creates a 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 playpen. But after a few months, he will rise to his feet and get to the sockets and sharp corners.

2. Only good for a few months. When your baby is very tiny, you are more likely to want to hold him in your arms, wear him in a sling, or put him in a rocking chair.

The arena will come in handy for 2-3 months between "began to sit" and "began to walk", then this fence will not stop the child and will not suit him.

3. Price. A quality thing 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. Not every interior can fit a playpen along with a bunch of other things and furniture associated with a child.

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

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

But if you don’t let him encounter the objects of everyday life at all, study and make discoveries on his own, then this will only slow down his development and delay the acquisition of important knowledge and skills.

You will also be interested to read:

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