A "Yes Space" is more than a baby-proofed room or corner in your home. It's a space designated specifically for your baby to play safely without getting hurt and being told "no," and allowing independence and freedom to explore without interrupting things they can touch. Your baby's "YES Space" can be an entire or part of a room. For example, some parents install a safety gate to ensure their baby doesn't scoot or crawl out. Things you can include in your "YES space" is

1. Age-appropriate play toys, balls, books, and other safe items for your baby.

2. Soft items they can put in their mouth.

3. Plastic containers and lids with smooth edges. When can you start implementing a "YES Space"? At the beginning and continue throughout your child's life. One recommendation is to give your child many environments, various floor textures, light sources, and stimulating items around the house to investigate (make sure they are safe, of course).

A balance of play and interaction with their caregivers is critical, and neuroscience reveals baby crave new environments. So don't just limit one place in your house to create a space for your child.