Playpens

Playpens are small enclosures, usually portable, in which a young child can play safely without constant supervision.http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/playpen Playpens are typically around 36 inches square and sit on small legs close to the floor. A playpen can help parents get things done with the knowledge that their baby can not wander away.http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Healthday/story?id=7616810&page=1 Once a baby becomes mobile, parents have to reassess the safety of the home. It is around this time when parents find the curiosity of a child to be an area where safety must take priority.

Playpens originally were made of wood and consisted of a flat rectangular platform, which was usually square in shape. The enclosure had vertical bars on four sides allowing the child to see out.http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/11/05/earlyshow/series/main5535018.shtml Playpens of today are more commonly known as playards. Playards are able to be folded and are lightweight and have wheels attached, making them more portable than their predecessor. Many playards come with storage bags and shoulder straps. They typically consists of a basic metal and plastic support system and mesh, soft plastic or nylon sides.http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/11/05/earlyshow/series/main5535018.shtml

Cribs and playpens can be valuable assets for new parents, but there are safety tips parents should follow. For infants under 12 months of age, finding ways to reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and suffocation can be vital. Here are some safety suggestions:http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5030.html

• Place the baby on his/her back in a crib with a firm, tight-fitting mattress.

• Never put pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, pillow-like bumper pads or pillow-like stuffed toys in a crib or playpen.

• Consider using a sleeper instead of a blanket.

• If a blanket is used, one should place the baby with his/her feet to the foot of the crib or playpen. Tuck a thin blanket around the crib mattress, covering the baby only as high as his/her chest.

• Use only a fitted bottom sheet specifically made for crib use.

For mesh-sided cribs or playpens, look for:http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5030.html

• Mesh less than 1/4 inch in size, smaller than the tiny buttons on a baby's clothing.

• Mesh with no tears, holes or loose threads that could entangle a baby.

• Mesh securely attached to top rail and floor plate.

• Top rail cover with no tears or holes.

• If staples are used, ensure they are not missing, loose or exposed.