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Whether parents take the plunge the first night home from the hospital or months down the road, most will experience a sense of separation anxiety the first time they sleep independently of their baby. Short of setting up camp outside the nursery door there isn’t much that will ease a new parent’s mind during this transition, however investing in a reliable baby monitor can help moms and Dads feel connected to their baby when they can’t be in the same room.
Time is precious for new parents and an uninterrupted connection with baby during nap time is an important factor in giving parents peace of mind so they can go about their day. An effective baby monitor can provide reassurance that baby is safe and happy and allow parents to focus on other important tasks.
Until a few years ago, analog audio monitors were the norm, but more recently manufacturers have started to incorporate technology used in other consumer electronics to expand the range of baby monitors available to consumers. Generally, monitors fall into one of two categories: audio or video. But within these categories parents can choose a wide variety of product features to fit their individual needs.
Traditional
analogue monitors are still available and are a good option for parents who are going to be in relatively close range of their baby. The first analogue monitors had only one channel and were subject to a lot of interference, but newer models feature additional channels that can be manually controlled by the user. This allows parents to somewhat manage interference caused by other wireless electronics such as cordless telephones.
Analogue monitors also tend to have fewer bells and whistles although parents can find some basic features such as sound lights that provide a visual cue when audio is picked up by the base and portable parent units for easier mobility.
Pros: Less expensive, manual channel selection on most models
Cons: High probability of interference, not ideal for people living in high density areas
Parent Profile: Analogue monitors are good for budget-minded consumers who are looking for basic features and who live outside of densely populated areas.
For parents who are looking to benefit from recent advances in technology, digital monitors offer a level of clarity that is not attainable with a standard analogue monitor. Dynamic channel switch automatically searches available channels and selects the one with the least interference for more reliable monitoring capabilities. This process is repeated as frequently as needed to maintain a clearer connection.
Recently, the standard in digital monitors was further raised with the introduction of Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication technology. Previously used in cordless telephones, DECT was approved by the FCC for use in baby monitors this year. An exponentially higher number of channels and dynamic automatic channel switching in DECT enabled monitors allows parents, for the first time ever, to monitor their baby with no interference –guaranteed.
Most digital monitors also offer a walkie-talkie function, which enables parents to communication with each other through the base and parent units or with baby if they are unable to respond right away.
Pros: Clearer sound, no interference with DECT monitors, farther range
Cons: More expensive
Parent Profile: Digital monitors are ideal for parents who are looking for the added convenience and reassurance of knowing they will have an uninterrupted connection with their baby. With DECT technology the connection is guaranteed to be interference free.
Up until a few years ago, parents only had the option of monitoring their baby’s audible sounds. With the introduction of video monitors parents are able to use their eyes as well as their ears to keep tabs on their little one. Most video monitors use a small wall or table mounted TV-set-like monitor through which Mom and Dad can view their child’s activity.
Most video baby monitors mount easily to the side of the crib and some feature LCD screens for enhanced picture quality. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind as you evaluate your customers need for a video baby monitor. First, the layout of their house may limit the range of the monitor. Video monitors have a weaker signal and are more sensitive to interference from other wireless electronics. If you customer feels strongly about having video capabilities on their monitor you may want to suggest that they also purchase an audio monitor.
Pros: Visual monitoring of your baby, good quality picture
Cons: High potential for interference, more expensive
Parent Profile: Parents who want to be connected to their baby visually as well as audibly may want to invest in a video monitor. If cost in not a concern, parents may want to also purchase an audio monitor to ensure they are getting the best sound quality.
Monitors with movement sensors are the newest addition to the baby monitor category. This new form of monitoring transmits sound similar to an audio monitor but with the added feature of detecting movement. A sensor pad can be placed under the crib mattress to monitor baby’s movement. Working in 20 second increments, if absolutely no movement is detected an alarm will sound.
Most movement sensor monitors feature at least two channels to help cut down on interference and offer other benefits such as sound lights for monitoring. Some parents, especially those with preemies or special needs babies may find sensor monitors more reassuring, but customers should be aware that these units are not designed to monitor medical conditions nor can they prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Pros: Monitors movement and sound, alarm feature alerts parents
Cons: Lower audio quality due to less channel options
Parent Profile: Movement sensor monitors are a good choice for parents of preemies who are interested in monitoring their baby more closely.
Asking questions about your customer’s home and lifestyle will help you guide them in choosing the baby monitor that best fits their needs. With so many different features available it may help to prioritise. Some monitors offer an additional parent unit which is handy for people with larger homes. Others include a variety of options for soothing baby, such as playing lullabies or providing a nightlight. Most are easily portable but some may also include a belt clip or neck lanyard for hands-free monitoring.
With so many options available there’s a baby monitor to fit every budget and lifestyle. Encourage your customers to consider their individual needs when selecting a monitor for their home.