The use of play pens today are being questioned by parents who are afraid of "locking" their babies away. Various websites and forums talk about the possibility of developmental delay and long-term mental and physical harm to children who are left by their parents in these pens. The studies haven't been confirmed by experts, but the damage has been done: these days, fewer parents buy play pens and those who do, joke uncomfortably about the topic.
If you've used play pens and are concerned about permanently damaging your child, don't worry. Professor of psychology at University of California-Berkeley, Alison Gopnik told Nanny Savvy that she "[doesn't] know of any systematic research on this," so there's really nothing to worry about unless you leave your child in a pen to fend for himself day in and day out.
Still, that does not mean that the playpen in your house should just be thrown away. You can rework them for your little tykes and make them less restricting. You could also reuse it for a toddler who has outgrown his in-house playground. Here are some projects you can choose to bring new life to your child's old or unused play pen:
Reading nook: A child who reads is a child who leads, and it's never too early to foster a love for reading. Smart Parenting suggested that you turn the play pen into a reading nook by cutting out the mesh from the side and pulling over a fitted sheet over the top. Decorate the place with throw pillows, stuffed animals, stacks of story books, and even a light source like strings of firefly lights or a portable lamp.
This is such a creative way to reuse the playpen when they get ... - #crafts #crafting #diy https://t.co/u5QGhsRYj7 pic.twitter.com/p0KjOBX6Xh
— Crafts For Fun (@CraftsFun2) January 7, 2016
Ball pit: If you were ever a child, you might remember playing in a ball pit. Though it was fun, the horrors recently associated with them make them a nightmare for parents. Therefore, making a ball pit for your child would make most sense - it will be clean and safe, unlike those in public places. Just buy air-filled plastic balls from toy stores and fill the play pen until it's half full.
Pass it on: If the playpens are still in a good condition, it is always a good idea to pass them on. According to Recycle This UK, there are furniture-focutsed charities and charity shops that would collect them for furniture donations, and give them to parents in need.
Of course, these are just a few out of many ideas. Do you have any play pen re-purposing project to suggest? Share it in the comments below!
