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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Equipment for Nine Month Old
Preschool/daycare teacher 07:25 AM 12-17-2015
I have a family coming tomorrow to see where I live and all, and they have a 6 year old who is home schooled and a nine month old. They would only be part time. I haven't taken babies before because I enjoy the toddler aged and older ones a lot more and I'm not really set up for baby care. However, I know this family from the church I practically grew up in and I know they'd be an easy to work with family, so that's why I'm willing to take a baby now. BUT I don't have any equipment for her, just toys. Is it really necessary to have things like swings and walkers and exersaucers and all for this age? I am very limited on space so I don't even know where I'd put that stuff Also, what can I expect developmentally from that age group?
Oh, and I may not even get this family because they live about thirty minutes away (but the mom works in my town), so they are trying to decide between me and another lady in their own town.
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Indoorvoice 07:34 AM 12-17-2015
No I don't use any baby equipment except a high chair and I have a 9 month old here. I do have a gated play area set up just for him so he can play safely away from the big kids. He plays on the floor pretty much all day and I just switch out his toys during the day.
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auntymimi 07:46 AM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by Indoorvoice:
No I don't use any baby equipment except a high chair and I have a 9 month old here. I do have a gated play area set up just for him so he can play safely away from the big kids. He plays on the floor pretty much all day and I just switch out his toys during the day.
This is me as well. In fact, containers for babies are not allowed by my licensing, only pack and plays and then only to sleep.
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LysesKids 07:57 AM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by auntymimi:
This is me as well. In fact, containers for babies are not allowed by my licensing, only pack and plays and then only to sleep.
THIS
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MunchkinWrangler 08:07 AM 12-17-2015
I'm required to have a changing table, high chair, and pack n play or crib for infants. Everything else is optional. As long as you have age appropriate toys I think that should be enough, infants that age are working on crawling, pulling up, etc.
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auntymimi 08:14 AM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by MunchkinWrangler:
I'm required to have a changing table, high chair, and pack n play or crib for infants. Everything else is optional. As long as you have age appropriate toys I think that should be enough, infants that age are working on crawling, pulling up, etc.
Oh, yeah a high chair too. We aren't required to have a changing table in FCC yet, but I do have a mat I use.
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Preschool/daycare teacher 08:43 AM 12-17-2015
Thank you! This makes me feel better about my lack of equipment I'm not big on putting little ones in exersaucers and all that when they can just crawl around and play freely, but I know with my niece and nephew it was a saver for my sister to have that for them so she could get other stuff done. Plus parents often expect to see those types of things.
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LysesKids 08:52 AM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by auntymimi:
Oh, yeah a high chair too. We aren't required to have a changing table in FCC yet, but I do have a mat I use.
I have a mat for diaper changes too & I use my Handysitts at the tables for meals... I don't have room for 4 highchairs
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Blackcat31 09:04 AM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by MunchkinWrangler:
I'm required to have a changing table, high chair, and pack n play or crib for infants. Everything else is optional. As long as you have age appropriate toys I think that should be enough, infants that age are working on crawling, pulling up, etc.
Originally Posted by auntymimi:
Oh, yeah a high chair too. We aren't required to have a changing table in FCC yet, but I do have a mat I use.
We are NOT required to have a changing table.

I've been in this business for 25+ yrs and have never owned a changing table.

The ONLY thing(s) we are required to have for an infant (under 12 months) is an infant seat OR high chair and a crib.

9502.0415 ACTIVITIES AND EQUIPMENT.
Subp. 5. Newborn or infant equipment. The following minimum equipment is required for each infant or newborn:
A. an infant seat or high chair; and
B. a crib, portable crib, or playpen with waterproof mattress or pad which meets the requirements in part 9502.0425, subpart 9.
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Miss A 09:38 AM 12-17-2015
I have a swing, walker, exersaucer, bouncer. And jumper. Do I use them all? No way! But, I have a baby who loves the walker, and we use that one regularly. I do more time in the floor, lots of tummy time, and I sit with them a lot, helping them to learn to sit up. We swap toys out regularly, set up picture books and read often, and all around spend time letting the infant explore their environment.
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Leigh 09:47 AM 12-17-2015
I use only an jumparoo. It's a lifesaver when I'm trying to cook lunch and can't monitor the baby on the floor with the other kids. I just keep it in my kitchen so I can keep an eye on baby while I cook.
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Ariana 09:52 AM 12-17-2015
the only thing I will recommend is some furniture that they can pull themselves up on and make sure anything you have is securely fastened and won't topple over. My daughter was the only infant I had and having a train table was great because she loved to cruize around it and play with anything that was on the table!

At this age kids are perfecting their crawling and possibly pulling themselves up (depending on the baby). Manipulating and exploring objects.
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MunchkinWrangler 01:01 PM 12-17-2015
You're right, Blackcat, changing table not a requirement! In my county I was required to have a vinyl changing pad, though. I personally need a changing table because it's tough on my back, it's easier and nice to have the extra space for blankets and burp cloths.
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Blackcat31 01:11 PM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by MunchkinWrangler:
You're right, Blackcat, changing table not a requirement! In my county I was required to have a vinyl changing pad, though. I personally need a changing table because it's tough on my back, it's easier and nice to have the extra space for blankets and burp cloths.
I don't have a changing table for that same reason.

I couldn't lift the kids I have up onto the changing table to change them so it's easier to use the floor. LOL!

I use a vinyl Kindergarten rest mat to change them on the floor.
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284878 06:24 PM 12-17-2015
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I don't have a changing table for that same reason.

I couldn't lift the kids I have up onto the changing table to change them so it's easier to use the floor. LOL!

I use a vinyl Kindergarten rest mat to change them on the floor.
I use the table because being on the floor is what hurts me.

I opted not to have all the equipment, some if it is useless, I have been selling them off. I plan on keeping the bouncy for younger infants, cause it has a vibration and recline. (I get a lot of interviews that the infant has re-flux and need to sit at recline)
I have 2 play yard (hexagon gate), booster seats (portable high chair), Push behind walkers (some you can ride on too), pack n play with sheet (playpen not allowed), bouncy, changing pan/ table, bottle warmer.
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Ariana 10:03 AM 12-18-2015
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I don't have a changing table for that same reason.

I couldn't lift the kids I have up onto the changing table to change them so it's easier to use the floor. LOL!

I use a vinyl Kindergarten rest mat to change them on the floor.
Yep I use the floor too! I use a little plastic insert thingy that came on an Ikea change table I used to have. I use the change table as an art shelf!
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MunchkinWrangler 11:29 AM 12-18-2015
I also have 2 infant seats, a small one and bigger one, a swing, tons of infant toys and teethers, stroller, a walker/entertainer and a baby gym, which is a favorite in the noncreeping infant. I have alot of this equipment because of my son and since I decided to go into the childcare profession, I'm able to put it to good use. Most of it gets stored but I will have a 3 month old starting in January so it will all come out again
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nothingwithoutjoy 11:50 AM 12-18-2015
I had no special baby equipment when I had infants. I would lay down a nice quilt or something for the baby when they visit, and set out a few simple toys on it for her. Then it's clear you're thinking of her/prepared for her.
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Thriftylady 01:30 PM 12-18-2015
I agree that a lot of the equipment is overrated. A PNP is a need, I think but other than that most of it optional I think. My DD didn't even have most of that at my house when she was little. She had a changing table but after about 9 months it was easier to do without it.
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Unregistered 02:50 PM 12-18-2015
Baby equipment is considered delaying development now-a-days Its preferred that they have full range of motion and free choice. It's better for their muscle development, flexibility, independence, confidence, determination, problem-solving, large motor, even creative thinking and cognitive development! A baby lying on the floor, pushing and pushing until they finally move a toy has accomplished so much more than a baby in a saucer wiggling their arm: that requires much less core body strength and is actually detrimental to the development of walking and trains baby's body to form an unnatural posture (which is really bad for the whole body) and can cause tip toe walking, bow legs, and hip dysplasia.
In fact, on this note, it is also suggested many similar problems (and more, different problems) occur from putting babies in any gear such as: swings, johnny jumpers, door way jumpers or saucer jumpers, walkers, bumbos, and basically all of the things you can buy to put a baby in.
Up to date child development specialists go so far as to dislike propping babies up (not even in containers, but on their own) with bed pillows, boppy pillows, or even a big stuffed teddy (often found in a reading area) because placing babies into positions they couldn't get into or out of themselves is also bad for development in all of those previously mentioned areas.
The very best thing you can have for a baby is a blanket on the floor. Then a couple cushions to climb as they learn. And some non electronic toys and possibly a little fabric and unbreakable mirror. And your own smiling face
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Blackcat31 03:00 PM 12-18-2015
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Baby equipment is considered delaying development now-a-days Its preferred that they have full range of motion and free choice. It's better for their muscle development, flexibility, independence, confidence, determination, problem-solving, large motor, even creative thinking and cognitive development! A baby lying on the floor, pushing and pushing until they finally move a toy has accomplished so much more than a baby in a saucer wiggling their arm: that requires much less core body strength and is actually detrimental to the development of walking and trains baby's body to form an unnatural posture (which is really bad for the whole body) and can cause tip toe walking, bow legs, and hip dysplasia.
In fact, on this note, it is also suggested many similar problems (and more, different problems) occur from putting babies in any gear such as: swings, johnny jumpers, door way jumpers or saucer jumpers, walkers, bumbos, and basically all of the things you can buy to put a baby in.
Up to date child development specialists go so far as to dislike propping babies up (not even in containers, but on their own) with bed pillows, boppy pillows, or even a big stuffed teddy (often found in a reading area) because placing babies into positions they couldn't get into or out of themselves is also bad for development in all of those previously mentioned areas.
The very best thing you can have for a baby is a blanket on the floor. Then a couple cushions to climb as they learn. And some non electronic toys and possibly a little fabric and unbreakable mirror. And your own smiling face


I use the floor only. I do have a high chair and a crib too but those items are used for those activities only and not for play or any other purpose.

I have found over the years since ditching the "containers" that my babies are actually happier and better sleepers in general.
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MunchkinWrangler 04:13 PM 12-18-2015
I do believe the floor is best for infants to grow, develop, and play also. But, it is safer to get baby off the floor if you are cooking or running to the bathroom so they don't get trampled by the big kids. My parents prefer me carrying all day until poopy diapers and hot stoves are mentioned, and I refuse because it does delay development. I do teach wide personal space of a baby but toddlers are clumsy. A nine month old doesn't need any extra equipment because they are more independent. Any time in any of the baby equipment is very short and minimal as I am required to let an infant have free range of my home.
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Unregistered 04:55 PM 12-18-2015
(Same unregistered a few posts up) I wanted to just clarify when I say full range of motion, I don't mean free reign of the house or environment, they can have a gate placed around them for saftery. I mean full range of motion which means like an arm can move completely freely in every direction without hindrance, as can each leg etc, nothing is strapped down or in arm or leg holes etc which would constrict the range of motion.
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Preschool/daycare teacher 05:11 PM 12-18-2015
I really appreciate all the responses They came today and the mom didn't seem to think anything of it at all that I didn't have that stuff She asked about a stroller and pack n play just so she'd know whether I wanted her to bring those (I have a stroller, pack n play, and highchair so I think I'm set if she chooses me). She seems like she's leaning more towards me, but she has another lady she's supposed to meet with also who lives in her own town. I really hope she decides to go with me though. She was here longer than anyone else has been yet and it was a very relaxed and comfortable meeting. She seems really easy going and laid back, considerate of this as my business (even asked a question and ended it with, "because I know in childcare you rely on the income from each child and need to know how much income to expect each week"). I feel like I'd be willing to bend over backward to be flexible with this family's needs if they really are as much of a perfect fit as it seemed I was a little disappointed though that she said she's not sure yet how often I'd have the oldest one (it sounded like it would just be occasionally). But that's okay, even if I only have the nine month old. I wish I hadn't quoted the price to her with the sibling discount though if I won't have both : / I told her my rates and included a sibling discount in it because it originally sounded like she needed them both to come every week.
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MunchkinWrangler 05:14 PM 12-18-2015
My house is fully babyproofed so, whatever. You can pick apart each of my posts, that's fine, I'm not here to make you happy. I was just offering advice and being a part of the conversation.
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Unregistered 05:36 PM 12-18-2015
Certainly nothing wrong with anything you said. I just saw you say free range and I didnt know if what I said was clear. So I clarified. I dont think you are doing anything wrong and I don't accuse you of anything. And i know you dont need my approval but i approve! Everything is fine also sounds like the potential family is happy with op's set up
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Preschool/daycare teacher 05:44 PM 12-18-2015
If I understood right she was clarifying that the baby doesn't have to have full range of the whole house, that a baby play yard could be used as well, as long as they can use full range of motion of their arms and legs. So basically I think she's clarifying that letting the baby play freely in a baby play yard would be fine.
Thank you for your input, also, by the way : ) You made a good clarification about using some type of containment for when you're cooking or something to keep baby safe. That's something I'll have to figure out, is what to use for those instances, that I hadn't thought about yet.
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Thriftylady 06:52 PM 12-18-2015
Originally Posted by Preschool/daycare teacher:
If I understood right she was clarifying that the baby doesn't have to have full range of the whole house, that a baby play yard could be used as well, as long as they can use full range of motion of their arms and legs. So basically I think she's clarifying that letting the baby play freely in a baby play yard would be fine.
Thank you for your input, also, by the way : ) You made a good clarification about using some type of containment for when you're cooking or something to keep baby safe. That's something I'll have to figure out, is what to use for those instances, that I hadn't thought about yet.
The cooking and such shouldn't be to horrible to figure out. Although I use a PNP mostly for sleep, if I feel I need to for safety I will put a kiddo in for a few minutes to keep them safe. I can remember when I was a teen ager kids spent a ton of time in playpens, but they were bigger than a PNP.
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MunchkinWrangler 10:26 PM 12-18-2015
And it's Friday! Sorry, wasn't sure about the tone but I joined the forum for support and good advice and hopefully, to be able to help others as well! I just wanted to make clear that I don't just put infants in a container and leave them there all day with little to no interaction as most people come to this assumption with childcare sometimes. I am fortunate to have some of this equipment still and believe it can be helpful. Sounds like OP's family is good with the setup and I wish you good luck in clinching their business! If you have a PNP for a 9 month old you should be good and their easy to move around if need be and add toys to if you are held up for a minute. Most of my older infants will hang out in the kitchen with me but that can pose a hazard as well, so high chair normally gets used while they have a snack.
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Laurel 03:14 AM 12-19-2015
Originally Posted by MunchkinWrangler:
And it's Friday! Sorry, wasn't sure about the tone but I joined the forum for support and good advice and hopefully, to be able to help others as well! I just wanted to make clear that I don't just put infants in a container and leave them there all day with little to no interaction as most people come to this assumption with childcare sometimes. I am fortunate to have some of this equipment still and believe it can be helpful. Sounds like OP's family is good with the setup and I wish you good luck in clinching their business! If you have a PNP for a 9 month old you should be good and their easy to move around if need be and add toys to if you are held up for a minute. Most of my older infants will hang out in the kitchen with me but that can pose a hazard as well, so high chair normally gets used while they have a snack.
I'm with you. I am retired now but did childcare for 20 years. I used a combination of equipment and floor both for safety and variety.
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Thriftylady 08:57 AM 12-19-2015
Originally Posted by MunchkinWrangler:
And it's Friday! Sorry, wasn't sure about the tone but I joined the forum for support and good advice and hopefully, to be able to help others as well! I just wanted to make clear that I don't just put infants in a container and leave them there all day with little to no interaction as most people come to this assumption with childcare sometimes. I am fortunate to have some of this equipment still and believe it can be helpful. Sounds like OP's family is good with the setup and I wish you good luck in clinching their business! If you have a PNP for a 9 month old you should be good and their easy to move around if need be and add toys to if you are held up for a minute. Most of my older infants will hang out in the kitchen with me but that can pose a hazard as well, so high chair normally gets used while they have a snack.
I don't see anything wrong with equipment and didn't take it in a way that you kept them confined all day. But it is expensive! And even more expensive when you factor in how fast they outgrow it so they don't really use it that much. So you can do without it, but I don't see harm in having it. But I am not sure I would run out and buy any for a 9 month old.
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Blackcat31 02:54 PM 12-19-2015
I don't have any issues with infant equipment either, I just have the ability (physical environment) to not have to use any.
My infants are never mixed in with others so they can't get trampled or accidentally stepped on but I also fully understand that not everyone has that option.
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Laurel 04:11 PM 12-19-2015
Originally Posted by Thriftylady:
I don't see anything wrong with equipment and didn't take it in a way that you kept them confined all day. But it is expensive! And even more expensive when you factor in how fast they outgrow it so they don't really use it that much. So you can do without it, but I don't see harm in having it. But I am not sure I would run out and buy any for a 9 month old.
I wouldn't buy it for a 9 month old either, especially part time, but I didn't consider it expensive because I used it year after year and figured it was a wise investment. A lot of it I got used or given to me also. You can find so much really nice baby equipment at garage sales because they don't need it once their baby grows up.
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Tags:9 month old, infant - toys
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