Are walkers necessary for babies and at what age should this device be used? Choosing baby walkers

If your baby sits confidently and has begun to master the basics of crawling, it’s time to buy a baby walker for him. Many people treat them only as a toy, and in vain. A walker with a seat and wheels is an excellent exercise machine for physical and mental development crumbs.

There are few criteria for choosing a walker, but when purchasing, you need to carefully evaluate each characteristic:

• structural stability;
• comfortable, wide, soft seat, preferably removable;
• multi-level seat height adjustment (from 3 positions and more). The height of the seat in the maximum and minimum positions is also important, because the physical characteristics of all children are different, and tall child“low” walkers may simply not be suitable, and vice versa.
• high-quality educational panel with toys and music;
• durable wheels made of non-slip material (preferably silicone - they don’t rattle or scratch the floor), with stoppers. It is believed that the more wheels (from 6 to 10), the better. In fact, this is not entirely true, for example, expensive walkers have only 4 wheels, but the design is designed so that it is absolutely impossible to roll over in them.

Pleasant, but optional little things: a spring function (most kids like it), a rotating seat (allows you to rotate 360 ​​degrees without the use of wheels), transformation into a table or rocking chair (the base separates and turns into runners), protective bumpers that provide additional protection against rollovers and etc.

Walkers are a wonderful developmental exercise machine for babies. But it’s worth reminding us once again about caution! Special attention need to be given safety design of walkers and safety of their use. Walkers keep kids mobile and they can reach things that would otherwise be out of their reach. Therefore, do not leave your baby unattended, do not allow him into the bathroom and toilet, keep him away from hot surfaces. Well, of course, walkers should not slide or fold with a little effort.

Manufacturers of baby walkers: who is better?

Walkers are released as famous manufacturers children's goods, as well as a huge army of little-known companies. Products from good, trusted manufacturers can be divided into two categories:

• products of European brands: Peg-Perego, Chicco, Brevi, Barty - expensive, high quality, technically more advanced;
• Chinese, Polish and Russian products: Selby, Baby Care, Happy Baby, Capella/Jetem, Firefly. It is much cheaper, but meets the basic requirements for quality and safety.

Is it worth paying extra for famous brand- decide for yourself. On the one hand, you need to choose the best for children, on the other hand, the service life of walkers is short until the baby begins to walk confidently on his own. But what you definitely shouldn’t take is nameless products, which may turn out to be not only useless, but also dangerous to the baby’s health.

Rating of the best baby walkers - TOP 5

“Price Expert”, based on these criteria and after analyzing reviews from mothers, chose best models walkers of 2017 with decent characteristics.

Every year more and more devices appear in stores, the purpose of which is to make the lives of young mothers easier and the development of babies. One such item is a baby walker. A young family begins to think about purchasing this item when the baby is six months old. At this age, the child becomes active enough to explore with interest the world, but not yet mobile enough to do it on their own without any risk to themselves. Our rating of the best walkers for children will help you understand the variety of models and not make a mistake with your choice.

Walkers are a mobile device that allows a child who is not yet able to walk independently to move without the help of an adult. The device in appearance resembles a baby high chair, but on wheels. This device consists of a seat, a base with wheels attached to them, and a table top. The child is in a walker in such a position that his butt rests on the seat and his legs touch the floor. Therefore, he can take his first steps with the support of the gurney.

Are walkers useful?

There is much debate regarding the benefits of this mobility device for a child. Experts have different opinions. Some believe that correct use A walker will only benefit the baby; others are sure that this device does more harm. In some ways, both sides are right.

Devices can harm children with musculoskeletal problems. In this case, the baby’s health condition can only worsen. All other children will benefit from independent walking aids. The child will independently get to know the environment, and the young mother will get some time to do household chores.

To ensure that the use of this device does not cause harm, you must follow some rules:

• Babies can only be placed in walkers from the age of six months. By this point, the child should already be able to sit independently and stand up with support.
• Because the musculoskeletal system The baby is not yet strong enough; the child is allowed to stay in the device for no longer than 40 minutes. Otherwise, it may be dangerous to the child's health.
• An adult must supervise the child while he is in the gurney.
• In the room where the baby moves around mobile device, there should be no foreign objects, obstacles on the floor and various protrusions.

Dr. Komarovsky's opinion about walkers:

Types of walkers

There are several types of baby walkers.

The simplest classic model of such a device is a seat with folding legs, wheels and a table top. Such devices are useful if there is a need to provide the baby with the opportunity to simply move around the apartment without the help of an adult.

Transformable walkers can be used not only for movement, but also for play. Often such a device has several functional additions, for example, a game panel, devices for developing motor skills and sensory abilities. The design of such walkers can be easily changed, taking a horizontal position if necessary. Such models are suitable for children who can already hold their back well and sit up straight.

Wheeled walkers are suitable for babies who can already stand firmly, rise to their feet on their own and take their first steps. This design is a toy with wheels and a handle that the baby can push in front of him. Such devices eliminate the possibility of deformation of the child’s spine. Walkers can be made in the shape of a car or a play center.

What to look for when buying walkers

It is necessary to choose a suitable walker model wisely, taking into account all possible nuances. It is very important to consider the height and weight of the child when choosing a specific model. These parameters should be indicated on the device packaging or in the instruction manual.

Important selection criteria are the strength and safety of the device. All metal and plastic parts must be made of non-toxic durable materials, free from any chips or nicks, chemical odors, sharp corners, or roughness.

If there is little space in the apartment, then you should prefer folding models that, when folded, do not take up much space in the house. It is also important to consider the size of the doorways in the apartment and the dimensions of the gurney. It is preferable to choose devices in which the seat height can be adjusted to suit the child’s height.

It is better to purchase models that have a wide rectangular base, which is more stable than round. The child will feel most confident in a walker whose frame is a truncated pyramid.

Pay attention to the number of wheels. It is generally accepted that the more there are, the more stable the model. Each wheel must have brakes so that the walker can be stopped for play. Wheels can be made of plastic or silicone. It is better to choose models with silicone wheels that do not make noise when moving and do not damage the floor covering.

The seat should be roomy and wide, with a rigid back without bends. The upholstery material can be oilcloth or fabric. It is best to choose a seat upholstered in oilcloth with a removable fabric cover. If necessary, this cover can be easily removed and washed.

The tabletop of such devices should be wide. This will provide additional protection against possible collisions and protect against falls. The table should be removable so that if necessary it can be easily removed and washed.

Additionally, other elements may be provided to insure the child and his development. For example, a gaming center will provide additional entertainment for a child, while safety straps and a handle for an adult will make using the device more convenient.

The best walkers

Now in stores there is a huge selection of classic walkers, differing not only in design, but also in price. When choosing the model you like for your baby, you need to take into account all possible nuances. According to buyers, the following models can be called the best.

This model has a bright, attractive design. The design has 4 pairs of rubberized wheels and several stop legs to fix the walker in a stationary position. The model is suitable for a small apartment, as it has modest dimensions and light weight. There are three positions to adjust the height of the device.

Advantages:

• the presence of a special panel for games, which can be used separately;
• folding mechanism;
• small sizes;
• orthopedic seat design;
• beautiful, bright design.

Flaws:

• not found.

The average price is 2900 rubles.

This model of walker will be useful for children from six months of age. Heaviest weight the child may be 13 kg. The wheelchair is equipped with an attractive developmental panel with mirrors, keys and rustling parts. The panel can be removed and used separately. A wide and comfortable seat is provided for the child. There is a motion sickness mode for the youngest children. The model is distinguished by high quality combined with a reasonable price and the safety of a stable case.

Advantages:

• presence of sound effects;
• motion sickness mode is provided;
• nice design;
• high quality and non-toxic materials.

Flaws:

• no height adjustment.

The average price is 3000 rubles.

The secret of the popularity of this model is the excellent combination of a reasonable price and High Quality. This model Walkers are not only attractive appearance, but also a stable, reliable design that will not allow the child to tip over while moving. The children's wheelchair has 8 silicone wheels and is made of reliable, non-harmful materials. These devices are suitable for babies from six months of age, the maximum load that is permissible for the device is 12 kg.

Advantages:

• there is height adjustment;
• the seat can be easily removed for cleaning and washing in the washing machine;
• the presence of a bright development panel;
• 2 brakes;
• The walker is made in the form of a bright car.

Flaws:

• not found.

The average price is 3600 rubles.

Video demonstration of walkers:

Chicco Baby Walker

The weight of these devices, made in the form of a gurney, is only 1800 grams. The design of the model is universal, which makes them suitable for both girls and boys. With the help of this gurney, the child will not only learn to walk quickly, but also to maintain balance. The baby can use this toy from the age of 9 months to 2 years.

Advantages:

• stable design;
• attractive bright design;
• excellent quality;
• help you quickly learn to walk.

Flaws:

• lack of sound effects;
• wheels may slip on the floor covering.

The average price is 3500 rubles.

Happy Baby Junior

This wheelchair model is equipped with an excellent development center with many items of various designs and purposes. In this case, the toys can be removed and used separately from the gurney. The toys on the panel are designed to develop motor skills, logic and dexterity. Being in such walkers develops not only the child’s physical abilities, but also his intellect. In addition to the fact that the devices answer everyone necessary requirements for children's toys and are of excellent quality, they are also inexpensive.

Advantages:

• acceptable price;
• excellent quality of materials;
• many functions;
• keeps the child busy for a long time.

Flaws:

• not found.

The average price is 2300 rubles.

Demonstration of walkers - in the video:

Fisher Price DPL61

The model, created by one of the most popular manufacturers of children's toys, combines not only a device for teaching the first steps, but also a multifunctional toy. For the baby’s convenience, there are two seat positions, as well as a special handle that will help the child take his first steps. The body is made in the shape of a lion and cannot fail to attract the baby's attention. The walkers are made of high-quality materials, the gaming center can reproduce different sounds and lighting effects. Using these devices, your baby will quickly learn to take his first steps and pronounce his first sounds.

Advantages:

• attractive design;
• various sounds and music;
• helps the child take his first steps;
• on for a long time attracts the child's attention.

The advantages of this model are clearly shown in the video:

Flaws:

• expensive model;
• uncomfortable seat design.

The average price is 11,300 rubles.

This manufacturer decided to combine walkers and jumpers in one device and released walkers with springs. This multifunctional device will help your child develop a sense of balance, develop walking and jumping skills. This model is made in the form of a scooter, which is sure to attract the attention of a child. For the baby there is an imitation of the steering wheel and even the sounds of the engine. When you touch the lever, the device plays a melody and plays sound effects. The highest quality materials are used to produce the body, which ensures the durability of the walkers and protects them from scratches, abrasions and other damage. The seat is removable so it is easy to clean. If necessary, the seat can be disassembled into parts.

Advantages:

• there is a volume control;
• solves many problems;
• attractive bright design;
• height adjustable to 4 levels;
• high quality, comfortable seat.

Flaws:

• springs are too tight.

The average price is 6,000 rubles.

Video review of this model:

As you can see, there are many different models of baby walkers that will help your child not only learn to move independently, but will also keep him busy with exciting games for a long time. Walkers are also useful for parents. A young mother will be able to take time for herself or do some household chores while the baby is busy playing with the walker. Using this device is safe for the baby due to its special design that prevents it from turning over or getting hurt.

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If your baby is already sitting firmly and is also starting to learn to crawl, it’s time to think about a walker. This is an excellent simulator that will quickly help your baby walk on his own. At the same time, it is very important to choose the right walker for your child, because the quality of the design determines how harmoniously the child will walk. physical development. Our rating of the best walkers for children, selected based on reviews from many parents, will help you make the best choice.

How to choose a walker for a child?

There is ongoing debate among pediatricians about whether a child needs a walker. Some say they provide a false sense of security, delaying the onset of independent movement. Others actively defend this device, citing many arguments in its favor. In fact, each parent decides for himself whether it is worth purchasing them for his baby. But if you decide to buy, you need to know exactly what criteria for a particular model should be taken into account.
So, if you want to buy the best walkers for your baby, pay attention to the following parameters:

• stability (most important criterion, on which the safety of the child directly depends)
• fastening the seat itself
• wheels (must be non-slip and equipped with stoppers), preferably silicone, they are not so noisy and will not scratch the floor
• seat dimensions (as soft as possible and wide enough to ensure maximum comfort)
• educational panel with toys (no harsh sounds)
• the ability to adjust the height of the seat by at least 3 positions (it is important that the device is ideally suited to the height of the baby, the child’s legs should be slightly bent in them)

These are mandatory criteria that determine how high-quality walkers you purchase.

The best walkers for children, inexpensive

Not always quality goods implies a high price. Now you can find inexpensive walkers that still meet all standards. In addition, do not forget that your baby will need this design for a very short time, only at the moment of transition from crawling to walking. Therefore, the cost of the goods is an important criterion in in this case. Below are the walkers with the best value for money.

1. SHINE RING SRA18

A plastic model with wide functionality at a minimal price. The base is wide enough so that you don’t have to worry about the stability of the structure, 8 maneuverable wheels. There are three height adjustment positions, and there is also a game pad. An excellent choice for those who do not want to buy expensive walkers for children for a couple of months.

Advantages:

• lightweight, yet quite durable
• minimum cost
• good gaming panel

Flaws:

• slight difficulties when changing the adjustment (a bit tight
  lever movement)

2. Shantou Gepai XH861-2

Lightweight and stable walkers with all the necessary functions that can be purchased at a very attractive price. Made of high-quality plastic with metal parts, there are 8 maneuverable wheels with locking. A special handle will help adults roll the baby until he learns to move independently in a new device. Despite the wide base, it easily fits through all doors, which allows the baby to actively explore the world. According to mothers' reviews, these are the best walkers with standard set functions.

Advantages:

• low price
• presence of all necessary functions

Flaws:

• limited color selection

The best walkers for a child with toys

If you want to purchase not only comfortable walkers for children, but also an interesting toy for your little one, you should pay attention to the assortment in this category. The models presented here are additionally equipped with bright, interesting toys that will long attract the attention of a little person exploring the world. After all, the baby’s mood largely depends on how well the toy is chosen. In addition, by giving preference to walkers with advanced functionality, you will significantly increase its service life, which directly affects the need to purchase the device.

1. RiverToys 802-3

High-quality and comfortable walkers with a seat and wheels, which are complemented by an interesting play panel. The baby will be happy to tinker with interesting things, and at the same time calmly move around the room. Bright colors, toys that can be rotated and cheerful musical accompaniment will not leave any child indifferent. The play panel can be removed and used as a separate toy, and the freed surface can be used as a table. Such a variety of functions allows us to consider this model one of the best.

Advantages:

• bright colors
• removable seat and game panel with light and sound effects
• folds easily, which saves space

Flaws:

• not detected

2. Mishutka SL-AA2

The most durable walkers, supporting weight up to 16 kg (when the standard is up to 12 kg). Adjustable in height, equipped with a high-quality music panel. There is a comfortable table with bright, beautiful toys and a steering wheel for control. The latter characteristic does not dictate the gender of the child. Girls drive them with the same pleasure as boys. This function promotes the ability to maneuver sufficiently, which is necessary when the child walks. This model is easy to use, it is compact and stable enough not to be afraid for the baby.

Advantages:

• large selection of colors
• the presence of voluminous toys that can keep their little owner occupied for a long time
• acceptable price

Flaws:

• no driving handle

The best walkers with rocking chairs

If you do not want to purchase walkers with interesting additional functions, you should pay attention to models that transform into rocking chairs. The baby can swing rhythmically on his own, while at the same time enthusiastically looking at the toys on the play panel. This way you will significantly extend the life of the walker, which can later be used as a comfortable chair in which the baby can simply play. The main thing is not to forget to take into account Weight Limit, which can withstand the fixture.

1. Selby BS-227

Compact walkers that can easily be transformed into a rocking chair. The baby can rest on a special mat at the bottom of the model. They are made of bright, safe material that will attract the attention of a little person for a long time. Adjustable in height, safe to use. The seat cover is easily removed and washed. In general, according to reviews, this model has excellent value for money.

Advantages:

• Beautiful design
• availability of additional functions
• affordable price

Flaws:

• not detected

2. RiverToys 306A

They are among the top best models of walkers, with the ability to transform into a rocking chair. Made from safe materials, have a wide base and a stable design. The seat has a durable double backrest and is easy to remove and clean. They are convenient to store by folding them compactly. The set includes 6 double silicone wheels, which provide high maneuverability without floor damage or noise.

Advantages:

• high quality workmanship
• increased safety due to two backrests
• silicone wheels

Flaws:

• not detected

The best jumping walkers for children

Another fashionable device that can keep your baby occupied for a while is a walker that transforms into a jumper. Such models are equipped with special springs, thanks to which the child bounces slightly, which causes a storm of positive emotions in the baby. Unlike standard jumpers, such models are safer for children's musculoskeletal system. In addition, the jumpers have standard panels with toys and music, which contributes to a fun time for the little one.

1.Pilsan Musical Rocking

The most comfortable walkers for children, which easily turn into a useful exercise machine. The durable mat can be used as a special trampoline for the baby to push off from. The model is equipped with a game panel with sound effects, by pressing the buttons of which the child develops motor skills. Also, the gaming panel can easily be converted into a convenient table.

Advantages:

• sold in many online stores
• wide functionality
• good fixation
• high design safety

Flaws:

2.BabyHit EMOTION RACER

An excellent choice of walkers for mothers seeking maximum functionality for affordable price. This model easily turns into both a rocking chair and jumping chairs, has a table and an interesting game panel with musical effects. Thus, by purchasing this model at a very reasonable price, you will receive two additional exercise machines. A nice addition is the 360 ​​degree rotating seat.

Advantages:

• acceptable price
• wheel fixation
• swing mode
• high quality silicone wheels
• swivel seat

Flaws:

• not detected

Which walkers are best for a child?

On modern market There are a huge number of walker models from both famous manufacturers and unknown companies. Little-known companies attract many customers with fairly low prices, which do not always justify the quality. At the same time, popular manufacturers often significantly inflate the price of their goods, although many note that models in the more expensive segment have a lot of unnecessary functions and additions, for which they have to overpay.

In the rating we presented, our experts selected the best models based on the ratio of their cost and level of product quality, as well as reviews real consumers. We recommend that you take a close look at all the characteristics of the presented models in order to decide which walker is best to buy for your child, based on your personal preferences and financial capabilities.

How to choose a walker? How do they differ from each other and which walkers should you choose? Useful tips for parents on the website Your Child.ru!

As soon as a child acquires the skills of movement (first he learns to roll over, then sit and reach for objects of interest with his hands, then he stands on his legs, then he learns to crawl and then to walk), interest in the world around him becomes stronger. And mothers tirelessly walk hand in hand with a curious baby or carry him in their arms... Walkers for a child allow him to move independently around the apartment without the help of an adult.

A baby walker is a device that allows a baby who is not yet able to walk to move without the help of parental hands. They are a frame on wheels, inside of which there is a special “saddle” for the child; a child can sit in the saddle and push off the floor with his feet and ride around the apartment.

Eat two main types of walkers those in which children sit, and those that children push. The first is for those children who do not yet know how to move independently, the second - which often resemble small carts or can be turned into a tricycle - for those children who are already beginning to walk while holding onto a support. Baby walker- the subject is optional, and many experts believe that the harm from it outweighs its benefits. If you are still planning to purchase a walker, then:

• Make sure it is stable, especially if your child is likely to bump into furniture while wearing the walker. A regular walker, which the child pushes in front of him, should only be purchased if the child can stand up without assistance.
• The value of the purchase increases if the walker has a toy tray or other additional accessories.
• Protect the stairs: the walker allows the child to move quickly while he does not yet understand the danger. Remember that children can slide down steps and stairs (including any unevenness on the floor), bump into radiators, cupboards and other dangerous objects.
• Before you put your child in the walker, secure the room and make sure that all sharp protrusions have protective caps (children do not always watch where they are going).
• Do not leave your child alone in the walker for a long time. A child who can walk sits down when his ankles get tired. Children who are left in walkers for long time, may damage your ankles.

What types of baby walkers can you find?

1. By age. For the youngest (up to one year) - sitting walkers are intended. With the help of such walkers, a child who cannot walk can move independently and take his first steps without the help of adults. The second type of walker design is intended for older children and plays the role of a leading support. Such walkers will be useful for children who already know how to stand and even move, albeit over short distances due to the inability to maintain balance. Holding the handles of a small cart (in the shape of which such walkers are most often made), the child leans and walks, first rearranging the exercise machine, and then confidently moving after it.

2. Folding and solid. Folding walkers allow you to take them with you to the country, on a trip or on a visit. When choosing folding walkers, pay attention to the presence of rigid latches that can fix the structure and support the child’s weight when walking.

3. By the number of wheels. The best models are those with greater mobility equipment. Pay attention to the presence of a motion blocker. This feature will be useful. The number of wheels is usually from 4 to 10. The ideal option is 6-8 wheels. The more there are, the less risk that the baby will roll over. It is advisable that the wheels are removable (this will make them easier to wash). It would be good if the wheels were floating. This will allow the child to increase his maneuverability: easily change the direction of movement and not feel the resistance of the structure when walking. Silicone wheels are the least noisy and prevent damage to the floor covering.

4. By type of seat equipment. It can be on a hard frame or on a soft one. The basic rule is that the seat should not be “small”, and therefore it is good if its upper level reaches the baby’s chest. Besides, required condition A good purchase is a rigid backrest, which allows you to monitor the formation of the child’s spine and posture. A soft seat or a fabric cover on a rigid frame is good because it can always be washed if necessary.

5. Functional purpose of walkers. The simulator can be single-purpose (the walker itself) and multifunctional (transformable walkers). The second design option can easily be transformed into a high chair or a children's swing.

6. According to the degree of equipment. So, on the front panel there can be all kinds of buttons and sound toys. Of course, such models are interesting for the baby. But on the other hand, their presence may become a reason for the child not to want to leave " playground"And being in a walker for a long time is fraught with health problems and loss of initiative to move independently.

How to choose a walker for a child?

Important! You should not use a walker before 6 months of age! And you should not leave your baby in a walker for more than 20-30 minutes. A child should only use a walker under adult supervision. In the room where the baby moves, there should be no steps, foreign objects (if the walker collides with them, they could roll over), or various protrusions. The floor must be level.

When choosing a walker, be sure to pay attention to the ratio of the base to the top frame. Ideally, it should be close to the proportion 2/1. This important rule must be observed because such walkers are the most stable. The child will not roll over, abruptly changing direction or reaching for an object that interests him.

Pay attention to the presence of the front bumper. This design softens impacts on obstacles and protects the child from contact with them. A tabletop is also good for this purpose. Therefore, you should not neglect it.

When purchasing walkers, you must be sure that they will be mobile for your apartment. To do this, before going to the store, you should measure the width of the doorways.

It will be good if the height of the walker can be changed in accordance with the growth of the child, and the seat should immerse the baby deeply enough, while the back will take on the role of supporting the spine.

Pros of baby walkers

• Walkers allow mothers to free up their hands and go about their business while watching and talking to the baby.
• Walkers satisfy the child's needs for movement, exploration and familiarization with the world around him.
• Walkers transfer the child from horizontal position vertically and open it for him new world, allowing children to make significant progress in intellectual, emotional and social development.
• Having the ability to move, walkers do not allow the baby to reach dangerous objects, since they have a diameter larger than the child’s arm span.

Cons of walkers for children

• Walkers slow down the development of motor skills in children. Because the child’s need for independent movement is not stimulated, since he can already move around on a walker.
• With prolonged continuous use of walkers, the load on fragile legs can lead to their deformation, and the spine to curvature.
• Walkers affect cerebellar function. This is due to the fact that, feeling constant support, the child gets used to the fact that when walking he has support from all sides and does not learn to maintain balance. The functions of the cerebellum, which is responsible for the coordination of movements, are formed incorrectly. And then, starting to walk, the baby begins to lean in all directions and fall.
• Your child needs the ability to fall correctly; walkers do not provide this opportunity. Of course, none of the parents want their beloved baby to fall, hit, or get bumps. But without falling at all, the child will not be able to learn to fall, that is, to group when falling from a still small height of his height, to protect his head from impact. Failure to fall can lead to serious injuries in the future.
• In walkers, the baby does not learn to be careful, because there are bumpers! If he collides with a wall and does not feel any discomfort, he will not learn to avoid collisions, and in the future he may be injured when colliding with something more serious.
• Many orthopedists do not advise using walkers, often mentioning the consequences of using walkers: incorrect position of the feet when walking (in walkers the child gets used to walking on tiptoes), overstrain of the back muscles (constant vertical position and the impossibility of changing it)

As soon as a baby appears in the family, parents have to purchase new things and objects that will help the baby develop and occupy his leisure time. One of these purchases includes walkers. Children's hours in them are exciting, and mother's hands are freed up for other things. But how to choose them correctly and how to use them so as not to harm your child?

Types and design of walkers

This item resembles a high chair. It has handle support, seat and wheels. The baby is placed so that the legs touch the floor. The child gradually learns to walk, and he can do it quite quickly and deftly.

Children's walkers can be of two types: with a seat and pushers (gurneys). The first option is for babies who have learned to sit and are already trying to stand. Another type is for those who are already trying to walk.

How to choose a seat option

It is important to focus on the foundation. It must be wide, otherwise there is a danger that the baby will turn over when it collides with an object. To make the baby feel less discomfort when hitting, the sides of the base can be rubberized for shock absorption.

In addition, the number of wheels plays a role. It is very good if the model has 6-8 rollers. Their diameter should not be tiny. Children's walkers will make less noise if their wheels are also rubberized or made of silicone.

The seat itself must be deep, otherwise the baby may fall out. The fabric must be soft so as not to rub the perineum, but at the same time remain durable. The back is good if it is high and firm. The chest bumper is chosen based on its softness.

It is important that the height of the structure is adjustable, then it will be comfortable for the baby to place his entire foot on the floor. Also, be sure to read the instructions to find out what weight the baby walker is rated for.

The price for them will depend on the manufacturer. The more the design meets the above criteria, the more expensive it will be.

How to choose a walker (gurney)

It is not easy to choose children's products because they must be reliable. Therefore, the first thing you should pay attention to is stability. Try tilting the “toy” in different directions to make sure it is secure.

The wheels should not be small. Since this model is best used outdoors, the rollers should be rubberized. Not only will they not make noise when driving, but they will also last longer. Your child will enjoy using this baby walker.

Reviews indicate one more nuance that it is advisable to focus on. Some models go too fast, and the baby may not keep up with them and fall, so it would be nice if the design was equipped with an adjustable brake. It can be adjusted to slightly increase the resistance.

In addition, it’s nice if the model has all kinds of accessories that are designed to develop the baby. The price for baby walkers will be a little higher, but it will be more interesting for the baby to tinker with this toy and he will not abandon it on the second day.

Advantages of walkers

Spending time in this device, the baby trains coordination of movements. In addition, every growing person is very inquisitive, and he can satisfy this need by reaching the subject of interest to him on his own. If you choose a wheelchair, the children's options here are very diverse and equipped with additional entertainment programs that satisfy the baby's curiosity. This is also a big plus for parents, since it is hard to always carry a baby in your arms.

Flaws

Baby walkers, like many other useful items, may have some disadvantages if used incorrectly. Firstly, because of them, the baby may miss an important period of life - crawling. In addition, the child should not remain in the walker for a long time. There is also a danger that he will refuse to learn to move independently or learn to walk without support.

Even in this design, the baby hangs, but does not stand. Also, while moving, he often pushes off with his toes; as a result, he may get used to walking on tiptoes, which will lead to leg disease and deformation of the feet.

Terms of use

Children's products are the most delicate. Walkers, just like other items, have their own rules for use.

1. This toy should not be used until the age of six months. This will harm the baby’s spine, since it is not yet ready to accept such a load. It is better to wait until the child can crawl and sit down, holding his back well.
2. In order not to harm the baby and not disturb correct formation skeleton, it is better if the use of this device is dosed. For example, three times a day for a few minutes. This time can of course be increased. But it is important to remember that if the baby sits in the structure for more than forty minutes, he may begin to have difficulties with the development of the skeleton. In addition, it is important to adjust the height of baby walkers. Reviews say that when a baby reaches the floor only with his toes, he becomes more nervous. Adjust the height to suit his height so that his foot rests confidently on the floor.
3. While walking in a walker, you need to put shoes on your child, this will help him hold his foot correctly. For this case, the shoe should be soft and airy. To prevent the baby from slipping and getting nervous, the sole should be rubber.
4. Always supervise your child while he or she is playing in the walker. Remove all dangerous and sharp objects so that he does not take them.

When not to use a walker

But besides this warning, there are other prohibiting factors.

1. Beginning rickets.
2. When the baby has musculoskeletal disorders.
3. If the child moves his legs too actively or, conversely, their tone is very weak.
4. Fear of walkers.
5. The seat may rub between the legs. In this case, you should abandon the walker.