6 Tips to Choose the Best Corrals for Children
After a certain age, babies won’t stand still throughout the day. They need to be on the move and explore everything around them. This can be very dangerous, though! In this article, you’ll learn some tips to choose the best corrals for children.
What are the best corrals for children?
When babies start to crawl or take their first steps, they just won’t stay still anymore. You can’t be around them absolutely all the time, which is why corrals for children are very helpful.
They’re similar to playground enclosures for children, allowing parents to relax and do chores around the house. This safe zone allows babies to play without assistance.
Corrals for children can be very helpful, some even include a place to change a diaper or take a nap. Also, some models can be set and folded easily to take them elsewhere. These are great for traveling.
These models have a transparent net around them, so parents can see their children at all times and their little ones won’t feel excluded from everyone else. Corrals also have a padded edge to avoid hits and are high enough so babies can’t get out, without help from another adult.
While you could buy a corral of any size, it’s recommended that you buy one that can be used for several months or, if your baby has other siblings or cousins, maybe they’d be able to play comfortably in the corral too.
Tips to choose the best corrals for children
If you’re about to get a corral or playpen for your baby, here are some tips to help you find the best one for you and your little one.
1. Get a model with stations
The best time to buy one of these is just before the baby’s arrival or right after, so he or she can use it for many months. Some models have “stations,” like a changing area, mobile toys, musical toys, and a crib that acts like a corral during the day. The bad thing is that they take up a lot of space.
2. Choose a high corral
The great thing about this is that if you use it as a changing area, you won’t have to bend too much. On the other hand, your baby won’t be able to get out as easily.
Measure the corral’s height so your baby can’t get out by himself, but that’s not difficult enough to get him out of there either.
3. Make sure it complies with security guidelines
For instance, the net shouldn’t have wide holes, so the baby won’t get his arms out of it. Also make sure it’s a strong corral, that can’t be easily bent or close on itself by chance.
4. Choose the right materials
You can find corrals made out of wood or plastic, although plastic is easier to wash and is less dangerous. Plastic models are also usually more fun and colorful.
5. Round edges are better
Many corrals have padded and round edges to avoid accidents or blows, either in or outside the corral.
6. Choose one with soft ground
Another important tip to choose the best corrals is that it has a soft and padded ground. This way, if the baby falls, he won’t get hurt.
How to use corrals for children
You’ve chosen your model. It’s made of the best materials, it’s the best size and it’s very safe. Now it’s time to use it.
Place it in a safe spot
Don’t place it under or next to a table, window, or heater. Make sure there’s nothing around it that your baby could hurt himself with.
Stay by your baby’s side at first
The first time you place your baby in the corral, he’ll probably cry and feel helpless because you’re not carrying him. A good way to avoid this is to stay by his side and let him know he can still see you through the net.
Place some toys in it
Corrals are great to keep your baby entertained, so you can go do the chores you need. Make sure your baby has fun by surrounding him with his favorite toys. But also make sure to leave space for your little one to move around.
Corrals for children can be a great asset in your life. Corrals can keep your baby from hurting himself and give you enough freedom to go on about your things.
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- Cordero, C. P. (2010). La Importancia Del Juego Y Los Juguetes Para El Desarrollo Integral De Los Niños/As De Educación Infantil. Revista de La Educación En Extremadura.