With absolute freedom, there is no need for creative thinking or
problem solving.)(^) d) The ability to entertain himself or herself
(^) e) Orderliness
Parents can begin using the playpen as a safe environment or as a
portable bed soon after the baby is born. Playpen time (using the playpen
as a learning center) may begin as soon as the baby has alert waketimes
of fifteen to thirty minutes. At least one of those waketimes each day can
be spent in the playpen. By two months of age, the playpen should be a
well-established part of your baby’s routine.
Start by putting your baby in the playpen for fifteen minutes once or
twice a day. Select times when the baby is fresh and alert (not right
before naptime). Put several interesting toys within your baby’s reach, or
use a crib gym or a mobile. Local libraries carry books that will describe
the types of toys or activities your baby is likely to be interested in at
each stage of development.
Bathing Your Baby
Your baby should not receive his or her first full bath at home until the
remainder of the umbilical cord has fallen off (seven to fourteen days
after birth). Never interfere with the natural process of the cord falling
off. After it does, you are free to bathe your baby in either a baby tub or
on a towel placed in the kitchen sink.
Always monitor the water temperature; it should be warm to the
touch. An infant doesn’t need to receive a full bath every day—a sponge
bath some days is sufficient. Soap doesn’t need to be used every day
either; overuse may dry your baby’s skin. The most important bath-
related advice we can give you is this: never leave your baby alone in
water. Adhering to this rule without fail can prevent tragedy.