Container Baby Syndrome and How to Avoid It

“Container Baby” is a relatively new term used in pediatrics to describe a baby who spends the majority of their time in pieces of equipment, or baby gear, that restrict their movement - aka a container. “Container Baby Syndrome” refers to the subsequent problems that can arise from too much time spent in these enclosed spaces.

So, what is considered a container?

• Bouncers

• Jumpers

• Exersaucers

• Baby chairs & Bumbos

• Swings

• Car Seats

• Strollers

• Rock N Plays

• Walkers

All of these items are something that you place baby inside that limit their movement and ability to explore their environment. The baby gear industry markets these things as ‘must-haves’ to desperate new parents who end up spending hundreds of dollars on them, when in fact they are not beneficial to your baby’s development. Many parents are even told that putting their child in certain containers will help promote their development, when in fact they can hinder it.

What problems do containers cause?

Extended periods of time in containers can lead to:

• Delayed milestones including rolling, sitting up, crawling and walking

• Flat head syndrome (aka plagiocephaly or brachycephaly)

• Torticollis (tightness of a muscle in the neck)

• Decreased strength and coordination

• Toe walking

• Visual delays

How can I avoid Container Baby Syndrome?

The good thing is that CBS is completely preventable! Here are some steps you can take:

• Give baby lots of free time on the floor

• Limit time spent in the car seat and stroller to only when you are transporting baby somewhere

• Do not allow naps in containers

• Increase time spent on their belly

• Utilize containers sparingly, no more than 15 minutes at a time and not before they are developmentally appropriate

What are some container alternatives?

• Baby wearing

• Play pen

• Tummy Time Mat

• Blanket on the floor

• Pack N Play

• Activity Table

If your baby is used to being in containers, they might need an adjustment period to learn to like being on the floor. Help them out by getting down on the floor with them and give them some age appropriate toys to play with. Visit my Amazon store to see some of my favorite baby items and container alternatives.

What’s the Bottom Line?

As a mom of two, I fully understand that parents need a few minutes to take a shower, do the dishes, or attend to another child. If none of the container alternatives above will work for your situation, then by all means use what equipment works for your lifestyle, but follow these guidelines:

• Do not use containers for more than 15 minutes at a time, and no more than 2x/day

• Do not put baby in a container prematurely (ie: do not use baby seats until baby has good head control and is beginning to sit up on their own)

• Do not allow baby’s legs to dangle - feet should be flat on the floor and not up on tip toes

• Take baby out of the car seat when you arrive at your destination

In a world where “more is better” we must change our thinking and realize that “less is more” when it comes to containers. So, next time you go to put your baby down, choose the floor first!

If you think your baby might have delayed milestones, or you’d like to learn more - reach out to me at brita@ptpdenver.com to schedule a free discovery phone call. Or click here to book an appointment.