Nursery
Monitors: A Buying Guide
by Jane Snyder, Baby Editor
 Introduction
to Monitors
Types
of Monitors
Safety
Tips
Introduction to Monitors
Nursery monitors are an extra pair of ears or eyes when it comes
to looking out for baby. They allow parents and caregivers to keep
tabs on a sleeping infant while working around the house or even
outdoors. Although a monitor allows parents and caregivers more
freedom and flexibility, it is important to remember that it does
not replace adult supervision.
Monitors are actually a set of small radio transmitters: a base
transmitter that is placed in the nursery near your infant and a
receiver transmitter that is carried along with you. It is important
for you to test and establish the operating range of the monitor by
testing the unit in different room combinations, as obstructions
caused by terrain and walls, and interference from other devices can
cause static and unclear reception. If you're living in a densely
populated area or high-rise apartment building, you'll want to look
for models that offer more than one channel so that you can change
channels when you get interference from a neighbor's portable phone
or remote-control toy. On the other hand, if you know you'll want to
be outside working in your garden or going longer distances with the
receiver portion of your monitor, you'll want to get a high-range
monitor (i.e. 900 MHz). Monitors operate on batteries, electricity,
or a combination of both, and many are rechargeable and do not need
batteries.
Types of Monitors
- Audio monitors transmit sound only. They may have
multiple channels to minimize interference, a low-battery
indicator, and volume control. Some monitors have a portable
receiver that can be clipped on and taken wherever you go.
- Video monitors allow you to actually see and hear your
child on a TV screen. Some monitors utilize infrared technology
that allows you to see the nursery, even in total darkness.
- Sound-and-light audio monitors have a special LED
display that allows you to view the sound level. In addition to
standard features, most have an out-of-range signal light, too.
- Intercom monitors allow you to communicate with others
in the house with just the push of a button, as well as
transmitting baby's sounds. Some feature sound lights that let you
"see" when baby stirs.
Safety
Tips
- Do not use a monitor to justify leaving your child alone while
playing. Parental supervision is essential.
- Do not place near water. As with any electrical gadget,
monitors present shock hazards if misused.
- Always follow manufacturer's instructions on placement and
usage of monitors.
- Handle monitors with care. Do not carry the device by the
antenna, as they are fragile.
- Protect monitors from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Remember to place the monitor up high where other children
cannot disturb it.
Jane Snyder has worked with children and
children's products for the better part of her adult life. She was a
child-care provider and a nursery school teacher's aid during her
college years and spent five years as a children's book editor
before becoming a toys and baby editor at Halfvalue.com. |
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