Monitor your child with a baby monitor

It is only natural that parents are concerned about the safety of their baby. Parents always want to keep their child within sight, but that is almost impossible since they would also need to work so they leave their child with a relative, or with a babysitter. And parents, too, need their sleep. There is a simple and easy solution to their worries: purchasing a baby monitor. This wondrous device comes in different forms and configurations, and best of all, it ensures that you can see your baby anytime you want to.

Some may wonder what exactly a baby monitor is. In the simplest sense, it monitors your baby’s activities when you cannot be there to do so. Some baby monitors get visual input only, while others get audio and visual information as well. More technologically-advanced devices can even sense the baby’s body movements. Several companies have already released their version of a baby monitor to the market. Prices vary largely as well. But for your hard-earned money, it is only logical to get the best one. This article has a few tips on selecting the right baby monitor to suit all your needs.

1. Type. Two types of baby monitors are available for you: plug-in or wireless. It is highly recommended that parents buy the wireless type because it ensures more freedom and mobility when you go outside the house. Wireless baby monitors allow you to watch your child from more than just one location. In addition, you can take these wireless monitors with you when you leave the room to do other chores.

2. Size. Select a baby monitor that is not too large to carry around or too small to provide a clear picture. Some baby monitors come in sizes that are easily attached to your belt. They even come with belt clips. The important thing is your baby monitor can provide a clear picture of the activities of your baby. Keep in mind that the audio-visual type of baby monitor can be bulkier than others.

3. Sight. Baby monitors that have cameras are better than audio-only baby monitors because they can give you a clearer idea of what your baby is doing at the moment. Cameras are available in color or black and white. Generally, colored cameras are pricier than their black and white counterparts. The camera should also operate well in conditions have little light.

4. Sound. The microphone attached to the baby monitor should be extremely sensitive so that you don’t miss on any noise that may occur inside your baby’s room. Even if the camera you purchased doesn’t give a clear enough picture, a sensitive audio will compensate for it.

5. Other features. Baby monitors sometimes have added features such as an alarm clock to serve as a reminder that it is time for the baby to feed. Remember to check for these add-ons as well.

6. Range. The range that comes with the baby monitor should also be good so you can travel for longer distances.

7. Batteries. Rechargeable ones are better than disposable batteries. The baby monitor should also have a feature which indicates if the device needs to be recharged.

8. Channels. Some baby monitors pick up more than it should. You might end up looking at the neighbor’s baby or just static given off by internet routers and cordless phones. Having multiple channels gives you a choice as to what channel to transmit on.

9. Motion sensors. If you have more money to spare, invest in a baby monitor that has motion sensors to prevent SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. These will alert you if your baby stopped moving for a certain period of time.

10. Safety. There should be a UL (Underwriters Labs) mark on the device before you purchase it. This way, you will know that the quality of the baby monitor has not been compromised.

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September 29, 2008 | Filed Under Baby safety