Guideline for Container Use in Babies
It is the desire of every parent and caregiver to provide their baby with the best care possible, and that includes keeping them safe and comfortable. One way to do this is by using containers, such as bouncers, swings, jumpers, car seats, baby loungers, activity centers, and floor sitters. However, it's important to remember that these containers should be used with caution, and babies should not spend extended periods of time in them. “Baby containers” consist of any device that limits your baby’s free movement. A pack n’ play that contains your baby, but does not limit their movements, is not considered a baby container. Here are a few guidelines to be aware of as you use containers for your little one.
1. Use containers for short periods of time: It's important to remember that babies should spend no more than 20-30 minutes at a time in a container unless it is being used for safety purposes, such as a car seat on a drive. Extended periods of time in a container can lead to issues such as flat head syndrome, delayed development, and decreased muscle tone due to the limitation on free movement.
2. Supervise your baby at all times: Never leave your baby unattended in a container, even for a short period of time. Always keep an eye on your baby and make sure they are safe and comfortable.
3. Use the appropriate container for your baby's age and size: Make sure you choose a container that is appropriate for your baby's age and size. Using a container that is too small or too large can be dangerous for your baby. When deciding on if a certain container, such as a bouncer versus a floor sitter, use the manufacturer’s guidelines for weight/height and developmental ability, rather than the age listed.
4. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for using a container. This includes the weight and age limits, as well as any assembly or usage instructions and expiration dates.
5. Use containers for their intended purpose: Each container has a specific purpose and should only be used for that purpose. For example, a car seat should only be used in a car, and a bouncer should only be used on the floor. Containers should not be used for sleeping, except in cases where your baby falls asleep in their car seat during a car ride.
6. Don't use containers as a substitute for interaction: While containers can be a useful tool to give you a break or keep your baby entertained, they should not be used as a substitute for interaction. It's important for babies to have social interaction and engage in activities that promote development, such as tummy time and crawling.
7. Check for recalls: Before using a container, make sure to check for any recalls or safety concerns. You can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website for information on recalls and safety alerts.
Containers can be a helpful tool for parents and caregivers, but they should be used with caution and for short periods of time. However, if you need to use containers more one day, such as during a long road trip, just try to promote more free play the next day. As long as you understand the purposes of containers and free play, choose what works best for your family! And please, don’t feel guilty if you need to use a container to keep your baby safe and secure while you take a shower or make dinner - that’s what they're there for.
Check out Year One Wellness’ Amazon page where we list our favorite containers and toy the promote good posture and development!
