Stupid question-how to use playpen

[Anonymous]

I didn't really use the pack-n-play for my DD to play in, but I still use it whenever I'm taking a shower (she's 16 mo). That way I know she can't get out, but she also doesn't throw a fit like she would if I put her in her crib (where she would think I was trying to make her take a nap). She plays with some toys, I get a peaceful shower, and everyone is happy.

I consider myself to be fairly paranoid about SIDS (no bumper in the crib), but I never considered it during the day, when DD was awake and playing.

[Anonymous]

I used our pack and play as a playpen for 5-15 min. at a time when my child was between 5-11 months or so. It was useful if I needed to put laundry in the dryer on another floor or go to the bathroom, etc. I would leave hard toys or books for her to play with.

[Anonymous]

I didn't use my playpen until DD could crawl well and would get into things on her own, around 11 months. Then I would use it while I was cooking dinner or taking a shower. I am planning on using it for no. 2 a lot earlier, so my 2 year old won't hurt the baby and baby won't get into 2 year old stuff all the time.

Basically, for the first, I don't think a playpen is that necessary unless you use it for travel sleep or if you have to leave the room or cook. But for the second, I plan on it being a safe space for baby to play away from dogs and toddlers.

I have a larger one and it is much better than a typical pack n play, though it is heavier. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000056C86/ref=asc_df_B000056C86970577?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=googlecom09c9-20&linkCode=asn&creative=380341&creativeASIN=B000056C86