In a corner over playpens?

Is a playpen a jail for a naughty child? Or a curious crawler? Or a new baby needing some space from a rough older sibling?

Or is a playpen a handy training space for a little one to learn to focus on a toy? Or a place for a little one to feel secure and safe, knowing mum will come and collect her after a few minutes of play?
While many mums think the of the playpen as a form of jail, and therefore hold off introducing it until baby is mobile, they quickly discover that baby is not happy with suddenly having their freedom curbed! And this is really quite understandable.

If you have a new baby, consider using the playpen as more than a way to constraint your little one. Consider using the playpen as a training tool, in focused play and in contentment, to play away from mum. This can be a part of a deliberate strategy. Of course, don’t leave her there for hours: just a short time after breakfast is ideal. Stay cheerful – even if on some days it may be a sad five minutes for a stubborn little one. The rewards of having your toddler safely playing and concentrating is definitely worth it for many parents.

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Simone is a mum of 6, with a background in music and highschool teaching. She is author of Calm Baby Confident Mum http://www.calmbabyconfidentmum.com

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