A Case Against Baby Containers

Across the country, it is common to see bouncers, swings, walkers, jumpers, excosaucers, floor seats, etc. on every baby registry, in every home, in most childcare centers. New contraptions are being invented all the time to keep infants convenient. 

But what if we could see infants differently; their exploration as a positive, as they learn how to use their bodies, stay safe in their environments, and develop a sense of autonomy? 

This is how we see the infant at Montessori Kids Universe, as a capable student prepared to explore their classroom!

Freedom Within Limits

In Montessori classrooms, “freedom within limits” is a motto used for all ages. This may look different for each classroom, but the sentiment remains the same: Children should have the freedom to choose materials and explore their surroundings with safety and boundaries at the forefront. Infant shelves are low to the ground so that even the youngest students are able to physically choose their work. Large furniture is secured to prevent tipping. Heavier materials are placed on the bottom shelves to prevent injury. Doors are equipped with baby proof devices. The classroom is prepared and set up to accommodate the infant’s freedom of movement!

Gross Motor Development

Infants need time on the floor without being restricted by equipment to develop their gross motor skills. Container Baby Syndrome, a term coined in the early 2000’s has been on the rise as infants spend more and more time on their backs in devices that contain them. This is an all encompassing term that includes torticollis, plagiocephaly, and delays in motor development. To avoid these issues, and to follow the child, infants at MKU are free to move their whole bodies, developing their gross and fine motor skills all day! Soft mats and rugs allow for infants to practice rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and walking safely.

Autonomy

How does a child learn what is safe and unsafe, what they are physically capable of, what interests them? Through autonomy of course! 

The less a child is physically restrained, the more they learn about themselves and the world around them. This leads to the understanding that they are separate beings from others and that their body is their own. 

Infants need to discover their hands and feet, they need to attempt self soothing techniques, they need to feel the textures in their environment and most of all, they need to try, fail, and master their gross motor skills. These experiences all aid in their overall development which is what we are all striving for at MKU!