Choosing A Baby Bouncer
Parents around the world recognize similar behavior in babies: they like to move. That's good for them, since it develops strength and muscle control. It also helps keep several other body systems tuned up, like the cardiovascular system.
One way to make sure they satisfy that natural desire in a safe way is to invest in a good baby bouncer. But what makes a baby bouncer 'good'?
The specifics will vary slightly with age, but the first criteria - of course - is safety. Bouncers should be able to stand up to a range of punishment. Some babies are naturally more vigorous and mobile than others. But as they age all of them will increase the stress they put on a bouncer. And, as every parent knows, they grow up fast.
Many bouncers are bouncer/rocker combinations. Those are a great option since they allow for multiple kinds of motion. Bouncing gets all that super baby energy out, rocking provides comfort for those quieter moments. That also allows movement of different types and in different directions, which adds valuable muscle control training to sheer strength development.
The bouncer or rocker should have no sharp edges anywhere, and padding on any part that comes in contact with the baby. They should also be protected anywhere the bouncer might come in contact with the floor, walls or furniture. A wide base will keep it stable and prevent injury.
Some designs make that kind of lateral movement more likely than others. Some have wheels. Those that do should have a lock-down mechanism so you can discourage movement across the room when you want to. Others are outfitted with rubberized 'feet' that will protect the floor, while side padding protects both baby and wall.
Look for snaps, screws, rivets that are strong and installed to minimize the odds of tearing the padding. Some, for example, have plastic rings rather than metal that provide the attachment to the bouncer or rocker. That can be okay, provided the plastic is a good composite that won't break under strain.
One excellent variation incorporates a battery operated motor. One with an adjustable speed is always appreciated. Sometimes it's good to let the bouncer do the work.
It also gives parents a needed break from gentle rocking that soothes an excited or unhappy baby. That decreases crying and also stimulates perception. Any safe interaction with a dynamic environment is good for mental as well as physical development.
Most will have good safety restraints built in, but you should try to work them to check. A soft 3-point harness around the waist and between the legs keeps your baby securely in place. The restraint should also be designed so that there's no chance of pinching or excess compression. Convenience is a factor, too. You want it to be easy to snap together when you're in a hurry.
Other nice to have elements might include sounds or music. That keeps your baby occupied and, again, helps them develop mentally while they exercise. A canopy is useful when you want to use the bouncer outside. A toy tray that is ultra-sturdy is always great to have, too.