Baby activity centers come in many forms: play mats, play gyms, bouncers and saucers, but all are stationary play equipment that helps your baby exercise and strengthen muscles without the dangers of traditional baby walkers. Typically saucer type activity centers have toys and a swivel seat, and can usually be used by babies with head and neck control from four months up.
Many bouncer or jumper activity centers come with adjustable legs so that your baby can continue to use it as she grows. A lot of them come with lights and sounds, and the more features, generally the more expensive an activity center. However, having multiple features in one place can keep a baby occupied happily. Activity centers are generally primary colored, which is optimal for stimulating your baby’s senses. If you have an active, squirmy baby, try to find an activity center that has springs (cloth covered for safety) so that he can bounce. Babies love this! But make sure that the middle has flip-down braces to hold the activity center in place when she really gets going.
Regardless of the type of activity center you choose, make sure that you follow all safety rules. Keep your baby within your line of sight and make sure that if you have an adjustable activity center you have it adjusted to the proper height for him. Don’t place your baby’s activity center near stairs, electrical cables, outlets, stoves, or anything that you child could pull down on top of herself. Never place it near a swimming pool.
Don’t try to move the activity center with your baby in it. Take him out first, move it, then put him back in. In general, 20 minutes is the maximum time your baby should spend in her activity center to avoid stressing her back muscles. And when your baby has outgrown his activity center, it’s time to put it away, give it away, or sell it. If a baby is too large for an activity center, he can topple it over and hurt himself.
