The large play yards can be set up and used like a giant playpen when you are going to be gone but I agree that my playroom is set up just for the little ones so it more or less is as safe as in a playpen and only gone the length of time it takes to dump a child in bed or go pee or get a drink or whatever. Make sure gates are securely closed as you leave.

If your room is set up for all ages then you will need to section of part of the room for just the little ones so that you can leave knowing they can`t access the markers or tiny lego or game pieces.

If they are all going down for a nap then bring them all up - even the 12 month old can be taught to crawl up the stairs with you following behind. Then they would be closer on the main level while you ran each one up the stairs to bed.