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Even at just 6 months old, some babies show early motor skills like sitting and standing. Many moms contemplate whether it's suitable to buy a walker for their 6-month-old.
Early use of baby walkers: Pros and cons
Parents often buy walkers for their 6-month-olds with the goals of helping them learn to walk and facilitating comfortable movement. However, the reality is that baby walkers often bring hidden risks that can affect the safety and development of the baby, which parents may overlook.
While the wheels assist easy movement, the small size of the child may lead to sudden forward movements, especially at high speeds, resulting in accidents if parents are not attentive. This is particularly concerning in places with stairs, thresholds, or numerous obstacles.
When seated in a baby walker, the child experiences the freedom to move around the house, encountering items like cups, pots, and boiling water, which could lead to injuries.
A child's natural development should progress organically; excessive time spent in a baby walker can impact the bone structure. The baby's bones are still soft, and prolonged standing in a walker can result in deformities and leg abnormalities.
Mobility in a baby walker relies on assistance, allowing the child to move without effort, fostering dependence and potentially discouraging independent walking efforts.
Children using walkers may lack awareness of essential skills like maintaining balance and the body's center of gravity when not in the walker. Consequently, they may learn to walk later than those who do not use walkers.
Can a 6-month-old sit in a baby walker?
At 6 months, a baby is still relatively weak, and their legs lack the ability to support the body independently. Therefore, research suggests that round baby walkers are the safest and most suitable choice for infants compared to other types of walkers.
Round baby walkers come with a frame designed in either a circular or square shape, fitted with wheels underneath to assist in the baby's movement. The upper section provides a seat for the baby, and the backrest is crafted from fabric and foam to prevent impacts. Each walker differs in color, style, and playful attached toys to engage the baby.
Effective use of baby walkers
The decision to use a baby walker for a 6-month-old depends on the baby's development and how the mother utilizes it. First, the baby must be sturdy, with a straight neck and a stable sitting posture before introducing the walker. Using a walker before the baby can sit may affect the spine and lead to back issues.
When choosing a baby walker, safety should be the top priority for mothers. The walker should be made from non-toxic, safe materials. Toys attached to the walker should be securely fixed to prevent any choking hazards. Mothers should prefer walkers with wheel locks to keep the walker stationary when needed.
Create a spacious, comfortable, and safe environment for your baby to move around. Store away any household items that may pose a danger to the baby.
Create a spacious, comfortable, and safe environment for your baby to move around. Store away any household items that may pose a danger to the baby.
To avoid negative impacts on the child's development from the baby walker, mothers should limit the time the baby spends sitting in the walker for extended periods. Avoid overusing the walker for any reason.
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