[Explained] At what age can a baby sit in a walker?

“At what age can a baby sit in a walker, and which type of baby walker is best? This might be a question many parents with young children are pondering. Using a walker is a support product for babies who can't stand or walk yet. However, if used when the baby is not ready, with bones not firm enough, it can affect the baby's future health.'

Nowadays, the use of baby walkers for infants is a topic of interest for many parents. Some parents start putting their babies in walkers at 4 or 5 months, or when they notice their baby is a bit stiff, without realizing that it is not good for the baby's bone structure. Mytour explores why it is not advisable to have a baby sit in a walker early and the most suitable age for baby walking practice.

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Why is it not advisable for a baby to sit in a walker early?

For small children, the bone structure is still very fragile. Many babies at 4 or 5 months don't even know how to sit. Forcing a baby to sit in a walker can impact the spine, neck, muscles, and cartilage at the ends of the baby's bones.

The first impact of early walking on a child is on their spine. When toddlers are still unable to sit, putting them in a walking aid exerts pressure on the spine, leading to the risk of curvature or deformation. Weak bones, particularly the cartilage at the bone ends crucial for bone development, are affected when toddlers are made to sit early. Consequently, compressed cartilage may result in early ossification, slowing down bone growth and potentially hindering optimal height attainment.

Encouraging early walking in toddlers can also cause their legs to be bow-legged, affecting aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, sitting in plastic walking aids early on may prompt toddlers to tiptoe to move, cultivating a habit of walking on the toes, which is not beneficial for the child in any way.

At what age can a baby use a walker?

So, at what age can children start using walking aids? The most suitable age for a child to use a walking aid is from 8 to 9 months old onwards. By this time, many babies can already sit, and their bone structure is much sturdier. Hence, mothers can introduce walking aids to their babies. Opting for round walking aids can support toddlers in standing and walking faster.

Which type of baby walker is the best?

When choosing to buy a baby walker for your child, mothers should opt for brands with a good reputation and high-quality designs that meet safety standards for children. Choose walkers with a reliable safety brake to immobilize the wheels when necessary. You can also consider walkers with foldable wheels that can be opened when needed and folded up to secure the frame, preventing the walker from moving. Some recommended walker brands from reputable manufacturers include Farlin, Chicco, Mamago Walker, Winfun, Zaracos... all known for their quality designs ensuring the utmost safety for children.

When placing your child in a walker, it's advisable to do so in spacious areas. Remove all items such as rice cookers, kettles, chemicals, power outlets, and breakables out of the child's reach.

Always supervise and monitor your child when they are using a walker, and especially remember not to place the walker on elevated surfaces like upstairs or on a table, as it is very dangerous.

Safe Usage of Baby Walkers

Some parents, when placing their baby in a walker early, often neglect the child, thinking they will be safe. In reality, a child needs attention while sitting in the walker, and whether the walker is harmful to the child or not depends largely on how parents use it. If you're considering letting your baby sit in a walker, you need to understand safe usage:

– Only buy a type of baby walker with clear origin, distinct labels, sturdy design, safe materials, and no sharp edges.

– Parents must consistently monitor their child, never allowing them to use a walker without supervision.

– Only when the baby is sturdy, can crawl steadily, and shows signs of being able to stand should they be allowed to sit in the walker.

– Only let the child sit in the walker for recreational purposes, muscle training; do not use it as a walking aid, and limit the time to less than 15 minutes per session.

– Place the baby in a safe, flat area, and mothers should block access to staircases, heaters, stoves, and all other hazardous objects.

– Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when assembling and using.

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