What is a baby mobile?
Mobiles are decorative toys hung over a baby’s crib or bassinet. A mobile usually has several toys that hang from string or ribbon; a motorized mechanism in the mobile generally makes the toys spin or bob to entertain the baby. Mobiles often play music or sound effects.
Mobiles can be used in other places, too. A mobile over a changing table helps entertain infants during diaper changing time. Portable mobiles can be attached to carriers, strollers or playpens to help entertain baby on the go.
Why should I get a mobile for my baby?
Mobiles are very cute; a mobile is a decorative accessory that can help tie together the theme of your baby’s room. But, more importantly a mobile serves several purposes. When your baby is awake and alert, the mobile can entertain her. Babies enjoy watching colorful, moving objects and it helps train her to focus on things and to handle things coming in and out of her field of view.
In addition, the rhythmic motion of a mobile can be very soothing to baby. When your baby is ready to go to sleep, the spinning or rocking of the mobile toys combined with pleasant music is likely to help her relax.
What features should I look for in a mobile?
First, you should look for mobiles that are attractive and will fit the décor you plan to use in the baby’s room. Mobiles are available in nearly every imaginable color and theme.
Safety is an important thing to consider with mobiles. If you purchase a used or older model mobile, check government product recalls to ensure the one you are considering does not have any known defects. All of the items that dangle should be securely attached with no small or loose parts. The mobile should be hung out of your baby’s reach so that she is not able to pull on it or put any of the parts in her mouth.
Mobiles range from simple wind-up mechanical models to more complex remote-controlled mechanisms. While wind-up units are less expensive and do not require batteries, electric or battery operated units can play music and spin for longer durations. This is useful if your baby likes to fall asleep to the mobile’s action or music, since you will not need to keep winding it. A remote control unit lets you easily turn the mobile off once baby is asleep without risking disturbing her. Units with timers are also useful, since you do not have to remember to shut them down.
Baby mobiles with lots of sounds and moving parts are more appropriate for playtime, but less useful for soothing, so consider this type for over a changing table or play area. Other mobiles pieces intended for baby to tug and pull. These are also meant for play time and should not be used over an unsupervised crib. Mirrors on mobiles add another dimension of visual interest and are appropriate for all types of mobiles as long as they are safe and unbreakable.
Remember that crib mobiles should be removed as soon as the baby is able to reach and pull on them.
