Easy Way to Happiness

Baby highchairs are something you?ll need for your child as soon as they are old enough to sit up on their own; this is typically around six months of age. There are some models which recline to be suitable for infants, but in general, you won?t need one until your child can sit up.

Many of the features offered by highchairs are made with the parent or other caretaker in mind more so than for the child. However, padded seat covers and height adjustability definitely make for a more comfortable seat for your child, as do adjustable foot rests ? these allow the chair to be adjusted to accommodate the needs of your growing child. Wheels are a great feature for parents but are not necessary for the comfort of your child (but parents will definitely appreciate them). There are also a lot of models of highchair which are foldable for ease of storage.

Many modern highchairs can be easily turned into play tables with an over-the-tray insert, quickly turning the highchair into a play table for your child. You can also choose highchairs with extra large trays (this keeps the mess on the tray instead of the floor). Inset cup holders are found in most baby highchairs as well.

Any highchairs you choose needs to have a broad base which gives the chair enough stability to prevent its tipping over. While it?s important to teach your young child to sit up, a broad base will prevent tipping when your child leans over the side of their high chair.

When looking at highchairs some people express opinions about what the highchair is made of. There are all wood chairs that tend to not be adjustable in height. There are metal framed highchairs with plastic trays and there are highchairs that are all plastic.

The important thing is that your highchair is safe for your child. Never leave your baby alone in their chair – it only takes a second for an accident to occur.

Your child should always be strapped into the highchair without exception. The feeding tray will not prevent your baby from slipping under it and falling to the floor and possibly incurring an injury. If an older child slips under the tray they could get stuck and get injured.

If you have a highchair which is foldable, always make sure that it is locked into the open position before you place your child in it. Test your highchair from time to time to make sure that it?s in good working order.

Never place your child in a highchair within reach of anything which they could push against and tip themselves over. Make sure that there are no cords, wires or any other hazards within your baby’s reach.

When putting the feeding tray in place be sure to watch your child?s fingers. They could be pinched or severely cut. Also be sure the lock catches by tugging on the tray gently. It will not hold your child in place but if it is loose or doesn?t catch, your child if not strapped in could fall and get hurt.

Wear of the high chair can be hazardous. If the vinyl cover over foam is torn the baby could ingest small pieces of foam. Worn locking mechanisms could prevent the tray from staying in place. All belts and clasps should be checked for fraying or tears. Check the clasps for missing pieces or cracks. Cracked or chipped trays could cause injury or harbor germs. This type of check should be done before purchasing a second hand chair as well.