Melissa:
Every baby needs a break from their parents now and then! Isn't that why swings, bouncers, and play yards were invented?
(fun music)
Ellie:
Don't worry parents—we know it's really the other way around. Hi I'm Ellie…
Melissa:
And I'm Melissa, and we're the Baby Planners.
Ellie:
Of course, every Mom and Dad need a way to keep baby safe and happy while they are busy nearby.
Melissa:
But which of the many baby entertainers should you choose?
Ellie:
We'll help you decide, step by step.
Ellie & Melissa:
Bouncers and rockers are top sellers and our favorite for keeping babies up to 25 lbs busy and happy.
Some have a bar of toys for baby to bat or vibrations that simulate a car ride; others come equipped with lights, sounds and music.
(lullaby music)
Ellie & Melissa:
Swings can be a lifesaver when your little one is fussy. The rocking motion soothes and can even lull baby to sleep.
But be sure to gage baby's reaction before you buy–some newborns don't like them! If your baby likes the swing follow these guidelines:
Make sure it has a wide base and low center of gravity to avoid tipping over;
Choose a plush, machine washable seat with a crotch post, and 5 point harness -- hip straps are especially important for newborns;
Look for variable speeds and music options that adjust to baby's mood ;
And easy to reach recline and seat positions
Good Jumping
Ellie:
Giddy babies make doorway jumpers look fun,
Melissa:
but there are serious safety risks.
Ellie:
Baby can bump into the doorframe or be pushed by a sibling.
Melissa:
Doorway straps or clamps can break, a serious issue that has lead to numerous recalls.
There we go….
Ellie & Melissa:
That's why Consumer Reports only recommends a stationary activity jumper. Some spin—and most sport a play table filled with fun activities to stimulate development.
Never leave baby in one for more than 15 minutes at a time, and remember—there's a limited window for you, baby must be able to hold head upright but not be able to walk or climb unassisted.
Melissa:
Walkers are another popular baby item – but they also pose a safety risk.
Ellie:
Improved standards have lowered walker-related injuries, but the number is still high, so they are not recommended.
Ellie & Melissa:
Play yards are a perennial favorite. Today's versions provide entertainment via detachable toy bars, mobiles and musical centers.
They also serve as a portable changing station or overnight crib for travel. Some even come with a removable bassinet and canopy.
Be sure to use the play yard safely—nearly two thousand babies are hurt every year due to incorrect assembly and other user mistakes. To avoid injury:
Ellie & Melissa continued...:
Buy a newer model with auto locking top rails and strong latches ;Follow assembly instructions carefully;
Never put baby in with the sides down and double check all latches and hinges are in the locked position.;
Choose a play yard with mesh holes under a quarter inch and check for tears and punctures regularly;
Don't add extra pillows, comforters or mattress to the play yard and remove all toys when baby is asleep;
Never put the play yard near a window with cords from blinds or curtains—these pose a strangling hazard; Never move a play yard with baby inside;
And stop using the bassinet, changing table insert and play yard when baby reaches the manufactures weight limit
Ellie:
Like we said, every parent--
Melissa:
--and baby!
Ellie:
deserve a break, but none of these items are meant to be mechanical babysitters. It's absolutely critical to keep a close eye on baby at all times.
Ellie & Melissa:
For WebMD, we're Ellie and Melissa, The Baby Planners.
