Baby monitors are among the most important purchases you will make when preparing for your new baby. Many new parents are terrified of leaving their newborn alone, even for a minute. With hundreds of stories about SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) running around, this fear is very understandable! This is why baby monitors are so important.
Baby monitors allow parents to be a little more comfortable with leaving their little one alone for a short period of time while they cook, clean, and grab a bath. With baby monitors, you can hear (and with many new monitors, see) what your baby is doing. If they begin to fuss a little, you can go to them and attend to their needs. This brings peace of mind to the parents, as they can take care of household chores while listening in on their baby.
However, as with many baby products, their are a large variety of choices. Do you want a basic monitor, or one with video? While the brand you buy is completely up to you, it is wise to research the options so that you can make an informed decision. Here are a few of the options available.
First, lets look at the Graco iMonitor. It offers a 200-foot range, which means you can walk all over the house and even to the mailbox and still have crystal clear sound. If you are moving out of range, it has a small alarm that notifies you. It uses rechargeable batteries, which helps save money. The parent unit comes with a belt clip, which allows for easy portability. This is a good choice if you are very busy with household chores that require you to be outside, or if you have a large house. It is also 100% digital.
Next up is the Bebe Sounds Portable Color Video and Sound Monitor. This comes with two separate cameras as well as a movement sensor. This digital color video baby monitor can put your mind at ease, as you can see and hear the baby, day or night. The parent unit is portable, so that you can walk around the house and still see your baby at all times. This monitor comes with infrared night vision, a power saving mode for both units, and is completely wireless.
Finally is the Philips DECT Digital Baby Monitor. If you want a basic, simple digital monitor, this is the perfect choice. This one allows you to check the room temperature and comes with a twinkling star night-light, as well as a few lullabies. It also acts as a walkie-talkie, so that you can talk to your baby, regardless of what room you are in. The parent unit is small and mobile. It comes with a belt clip and a neck cord so that you can keep it on you at all times. With its travel pouch, you can carry it with you when you visit friends and family. Perhaps the best feature is the zero interference digital technology. Using data encryption, you can listen in on your baby without worrying about hearing your neighbor's telephone conversations. The parent unit comes two triple "A" rechargeable batteries, however the baby unit requires four AA batteries, which are not included.
It is fairly easy to ensure that your baby is safe while you are busy with dinner or cleaning. Of course, spending physical time with your baby when your work is done is important too. The first year of your baby's life is filled with new experiences and adventures. Enjoy them while you can, as it certainly goes by quickly!
