As a parent, you want to encourage your baby to develop physically in the best way possible.
When a baby reaches about 4 months, they will be able to lift their heads independently, especially when they’re on their tummies. At 6 months onwards, they will be strong enough to sit up. At first, the might need a little help.
This is where modern baby chairs come in.
Some parents may not be aware, but there are baby seats that are designed to help your baby sit up independently.
These types of seats have supporting structures to help your child develop and strengthen the muscles they need.
What Features Good Baby Chairs Have
There are several features that make a good baby chair, which includes both baby floor seats and high chairs.
- These days there are many baby chairs that are padded. There are even chairs that are soft and fluffy, just like a plush toy. There are even some that are inflatable and resemble floats.
- It has all round support for your baby, including on the back, front and sides. This helps them stay upright and be able to see their surroundings in an easier way.
- Many of these chairs also have a play tray or arch which allows your baby to occupy themselves and play while you complete certain tasks. These activities and toys are often designed to help in your baby’s physical development, including things like their flexibility and hand-eye coordination.
- They should be made from natural, toxin free materials. If they have solid parts, make sure that these parts aren’t made of PVC which contains toxic phthalates.
- When choosing a good baby chair, ensure that they’re easy to clean. If there are fabric parts, it would be better if these parts can be detached or removed and laundered in a machine. Additionally, the chair should ideally be waterproof as your child may dirty it on a daily basis.
The Benefits of Good Baby Chairs
Baby chairs come in very handy in certain situations. As a parent, it is a convenience that you should have around the house. Here are some examples of when and how they can help you.
- It allows your child to sit up and be occupied while you complete household chores. Sitting up near you allows them to observe what you’re doing. Additionally, you can interact with them and keep an eye on them too.
- A baby chair keeps your baby safe too. If you have to focus on something else, you can rest assured that they won’t roll or crawl somewhere and get themselves in trouble.
- These chairs encourage your baby to eat independently too. Whether holding their own bottle or munching snacks from a removable tray.
When to Start Using a Baby Chair
Most experts suggest that you only start using a baby chair when your baby is able to sit up and eat solid foods, which is around 6 months old. Putting them in a chair too early can be detrimental to their natural developmental processes.
What You Can Do In the Meantime
Before they can sit up on their own, you can consider encouraging them to have tummy time when they’re able to lift their heads up independently. This is when babies are on their tummies and can strengthen their back, hands and neck muscles.
Here’s where the Tummy with Mummy chair ($59.90) comes in handy. With a curved design, it allows babies younger than 6 months to have tummy time comfortably, and within your sight. Basically, it’s a baby chair that allows your child to be on their tummies.
You can also use it to prop your baby up into sitting position or to lay back as there is a high back. Additionally, there is a detachable harness too which provides extra security in the sitting position.
In fact, the Tummy with Mummy chair can be used even when your baby becomes a toddler. Therefore, it is a worthwhile long term investment.