There comes a time in every baby’s life when they are ready to start taking their first steps. This is an exciting milestone, and parents want to ensure they have the proper equipment to help their children learn and grow.
A walker is one of the essential pieces of equipment for this process. An infant walker can provide stability and confidence as your child takes those first steps.
So when to use walker for baby? Keep reading to find out!
When To Use Walker For Baby?
There is no definitive answer to this question as every baby is different. Some parents start using a walker with their baby as early as four months old, while others wait until their baby is closer to eight or nine months old.
It is up to the parent to decide when they feel their baby is ready for a walker. If unsure, you can always consult your child’s pediatrician for guidance.
The Advantages Of Using Baby Walkers
1. Baby Walkers Help Babies Learn How To Walk Sooner
Baby walkers are a great way to encourage your baby to start walking. By sitting upright in the walker, your baby can practice taking steps and learn how to balance himself or herself. The walker also provides support and stability, so if your baby should fall, he or she will not be injured.
In addition, baby walkers are a great way to keep your baby entertained. Most walkers come equipped with toys and activities that will help to stimulate your baby’s mind and keep him or her occupied. And because baby walkers are portable, you can take them with you when you travel, so your baby can continue to enjoy their benefits even when you’re on the go.
2. A Great Way To Exercise A Baby’s Muscles
Any parent knows that babies are full of energy. They are constantly moving, wiggling, and exploring their surroundings. This can be both exhausting and adorable to watch. However, it is also essential for babies to get enough exercise.
Baby walkers provide an excellent way for babies to burn off some energy and strengthen their muscles. By spending time in a baby walker, babies can develop the muscles in their legs and improve their balance. Additionally, baby walkers encourage crawling and standing, which helps babies learn how to move around independently.
3. Baby Walkers Provide A Sense Of Independence
Baby walkers are a great way to give your little one a sense of independence and are perfect for a baby’s development. When they can move around on their own, they will be able to explore their surroundings and learn about the world around them. Additionally, baby walkers can help to develop gross motor skills, such as crawling and walking.
4. Baby Walkers Are Safe
Baby walkers are a must-have for parents of young children. They provide a safe and entertaining way for your baby to get around and free up your hands so that you can take care of other tasks.
Baby walkers come in various styles, but most have a seat suspended from a frame, allowing your baby to move freely while remaining upright. This can be invaluable when trying to cook dinner or get the laundry done.
In addition, most baby walkers come equipped with various toys and activities to keep your little one entertained. These can include everything from music to flashing lights, providing endless hours of fun for your child.
The Disadvantages Of Using Baby Walkers
1. Baby Walkers Are Expensive And Not Always Necessary
First, they can be expensive. A good-quality baby walker can cost around Rs.1500-2500. Second, baby walkers are not always necessary. Some babies learn to walk without using a baby walker.
2. Baby Walkers Can Cause Serious Injuries
One of the biggest dangers is that they can increase the risk of broken bones. Babies who use walkers are more likely to fall and sustain fractures, particularly of the femur (thigh bone).
They are also at greater risk of developing soft tissue injuries, such as bruises and cuts. In addition, baby walkers can delay the development of important motor skills, such as crawling and walking.
3. Can Delay A Baby’s Ability To Walk
This is because they provide an easy way for babies to get around without using their legs to support their weight or learn how to balance. As a result, babies who spend too much time on walkers can end up delayed in reaching important milestones, such as taking their first steps.
4. Can Lead To Babies Becoming Overweight Or Obese
While there are some advantages to using baby walkers, such as developing weight-bearing in the legs, there are also several disadvantages that parents should be aware of. One of the most significant disadvantages is that baby walkers can lead to babies becoming overweight or obese. This is because babies who use walkers often cannot move around as much on their own, leading to a sedentary lifestyle.
Precautions While Using a Baby Walker
As a parent, it is your responsibility to keep your baby safe. If you have decided to go ahead with a baby walker then make sure you follow these precautions –
- Make sure that the baby uses the walker on a flat even surface. There should not be any loose rugs that can get caught in the wheels of the walker.
- There are no obstructions in the way like center tables or any other sharp edges that might hurt the baby.
- The baby walker should not be used near the staircase else you can block the staircase using baby gates.
- Make sure you or an adult is near the baby for supervision when the baby is using the walker.
- Remove or cover any sharp edges that are at the level of the baby’s head.
- Do not let the baby sleep in the walker.
- Do not feed the baby in the walker.
- If you plan to use the walker outside your home, make sure you put on shoes on your baby’s feet.
- Be patient, in case your baby is taking some time to move the walker. Remember, once the baby becomes comfortable with the walker, they will just move in any direction.
Conclusion
Baby walkers are a great way to give your babies the necessary exercise while keeping them safe and out of trouble. They are also great to bond with your infant as you work together to achieve their mobility goals.
However, it is essential only to use a walker when your infant is supervised and never leave them unattended in the walker.
Additionally, you should always ensure that the area around the walker is clear of obstacles so your infant can move freely without any danger.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your infant has a safe and enjoyable experience with their walker.
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