The Play Yard And Its Features
A play yard is perhaps one of the most convenient pieces of baby furniture you can buy today. With time, manufacturers have been able to perfect the ease, comfort, and function of the play yard (also known as a play pen) so that it has become one of the “must haves” on any parent’s list.
However, a parent who is shopping for play yards will soon discover that not only are there a multitude of brands, but there are a million more options and making that final decision can be overwhelming. Hopefully, with the following information, that purchase choice can be less stressful and you can remain assured that you made the best possible choice for you and your baby.
Years ago, a play yard was fairly standard and simply offered parents the comfort of transporting an enclosed space for babies to sleep, or play. They are traditionally rectangular in shape, with a center floor fold mechanism, but they are also quickly losing their appeal as parents opt for the more multi-functioning models instead.
A play yard today is much more intricate and can offer features ranging from bassinets and changing tables, to canopies and storage options. Their sizes are still fairly standard (28” X 40”) with many of the same folding and storage abilities, however, they now vary in shape and include square, triangular, round and oval varieties. Some also come equipped with removable changing stations, canopies with heat-guards, removable changing supply bags, and detachable toy bags with heat-guards. The choices are endless; it’s really a question of how much you want to spend and how practical the purchase will be for you in the long run.
When choosing a play yard, there is a standard set of safety regulations you should ensure your playpen comes equipped with. Firstly, play yards are intended for children less than 30 lbs and fewer than 35 inches tall. Secondly, it should not have mesh holes larger than ¼’’. Thirdly, do not add extra padding to the playard as children can climb up and out. Fourthly, do not tie anything across the top of the playard as the baby can become entangled and it can cause strangulation.
With these elements in mind, take your time in making this purchase. Assess your needs and decide what will work best for you. If you are an active family that enjoys camping or being outdoors, then you may want to invest in a play yard that comes equipped with a change table and bassinet. If, however, you want a playard for the sake of convenience, then perhaps a more traditional style would suit your needs better. Either way, a play pen/yard is a sound investment.
About The Author:
Angela Lanci Zaurrini is a talented and successful freelance writer. Her
various writings provide relevant information and wonderfully researched
resources for parents and consumers purchasing baby products. She is a young
and yet experienced educator who earned her B.A. and teaching certification
through Simon Fraser University, Canada. She continues her passion of
sharing knowledge through her numerous writings and educational articles.
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