High chairs have become a common item for parents to purchase when preparing for their new baby. However, it is important to note that high chairs are not necessary for infants under six months of age, even if some companies design them to recline for infants. High chairs are only necessary when the baby can sit up. Nevertheless, parents have the option to purchase high chairs for their infants if they so choose.
High chairs currently come with a variety of features that are designed more for the parent or caregiver rather than the child. Some high chairs have nicely padded seat covers that make the seats more comfortable, while others have wheels to make them easier to move around.
However, these features are not necessary for the baby’s safety or development. Some high chairs now come with height adjustable mechanisms and adjustable footrests to accommodate the child’s growth and bring the baby closer to the table. Additionally, high chairs now fold for easy storage, making them a convenient choice for parents.
Some high chairs can even be converted into play tables, with an insert that fits over the tray to give the baby a place to play. The feeding tray on many models comes with an inset cup/bottle holder and some models have extra-large feeding trays.
When choosing a high chair, it is important to look for one with a broad and stable base to help prevent the high chair from tipping over. If the child leans over the side of the chair, it could tip and injure the child. Therefore, it is best to teach the child to sit up all the time.
Moreover, it is essential to ensure that the high chair is always used under adult supervision, and the child should never be left unattended in the chair, even for a moment. It only takes a second for a baby to have an accident, and even the safest high chair cannot prevent all accidents.
It is also essential to ensure that the child is always strapped into the high chair, without exception. The feeding tray will not prevent the baby from slipping under it and falling to the floor, potentially incurring an injury. Even an older child can slip under the tray and get stuck, resulting in an injury.
The feeding tray should always be locked securely in place, and the lock should be checked to ensure that it catches by gently tugging on the tray. Although the tray will not hold the child in place, the tray must be properly secured, especially if the child is not strapped in.
When selecting a high chair, it is important to consider the material used in its construction. There are all-wood chairs that are not adjustable in height, metal-framed high chairs with plastic trays, and plastic high chairs. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and parents should choose based on their personal preferences and safety considerations.
It is also crucial to keep the high chair in good condition to ensure that it remains safe for the child. Regular checks should be made to ensure that the high chair is in good working order, and all parts should be inspected for wear and tear.
The vinyl cover over the foam should not be torn, as the baby could ingest small pieces of foam, and the locking mechanisms should not be worn out, as this could prevent the tray from staying in place. All belts and clasps should be checked for fraying or tears, and the pins should be checked for missing pieces or cracks. Cracked or chipped trays could cause injury or harbor germs, making it important to check them before using the high chair. This type of check should be done before purchasing a second-hand high chair as well.
Finally, it is important to be aware of the location of the high chair. The high chair should not be placed near anything that the baby could push off from, which could potentially lead to an accident.
