A two way baby monitor helps parents, but before we delve into them, let's begin with a short description of monitors so we are all on the same page. A baby monitor is used to check on a baby when you -the parent/watcher are not in the same room. It is very helpful to parents who can't stay with their baby all day -and who can? The audio baby monitor is the most common type. This sends/transmits sounds made by your baby to you -the parent- so you can check up on them and ensure there are no problems. They consist of a transmitter in the baby's room and a receiver with the parent.

So what is a two way baby monitor? It is a relatively recent innovation. It allows parents to talk back to their baby and it is a feature that many many parents love. In essence they give you two things: a way to check on your baby, and a way to continue parent-child bonding. Sometimes all your baby needs is to hear the sound of your voice and it will be soothed back to sleep or at least a calmer state...all without you having to sprint to the bedroom or wherever they are. It helps parents take back control of their daily life so they don't have the constant shuttling back and forth. Note though that most parents use it judiciously and mix in "live" visits.

What is the difference between the two-way monitor and one-way monitor?

One-way monitors are just that one way. They only transmit sounds from the baby to the parents wherever they are in the house. However a two-way baby monitor lets parents talk back to their child. In this case each unit of the monitor is both a receiver and a transmitter...like a walkie talkie.

What are the major benefits of getting a two-way monitor?

There are several: obviously parents can make sure their baby is safe by monitoring for any problems (while they get on with all the stuff you have to do these days), but this also lets them be less frenetic because they can pick up the transmitter and soothe the baby and then continue what they were doing. Plus it gives them a mechanism to bond with their child by talking to them using the transmitter with minimal disruption.

This two way feature is a boon to parents who have kids with separation anxiety as the familiar sound of their voice can often be enough to reduce a tantrum, pacify or simply settle them down. Again parents who are in the middle of work, chores or even resting (!) can easily talk to their baby without physically being in the same room.

Think about bonding and the use of your time. A two way baby monitor can definitely help the parent and child bond, despite the distance. Parents use them to sing lullabies or read stories or simply talk soothingly while they are off doing other things around the house. And as most parents know, children often need the reassurance that they are under supervision and are safe and that can be very demanding if you have to go to their room every time they "demand" it. That knowledge that you are "there" can be very calming for a child.

A two way baby monitor gives the parents peace of mind and it reduces stress/anxiety on the child while reassuring them they are safe and secure. Sometimes a familiar voice can make all the difference in the world.

Clearly the Number 1 priority of most parents who have baby monitors is safety of their children. But a two way baby monitor can give not only that, but also bonding and an ability to lead a more normal life. It is not surprising many parents are opting for a two way baby monitor.