Baby walkers have been used for decades by parents, promising mobility and entertainment for infants who are eager to explore their surroundings. However, their safety and developmental impact have come under scrutiny in recent years.
What is a baby walker?
A baby walker is a device designed to support a baby who cannot yet walk independently. It typically consists of a seat suspended in a frame with wheels, allowing babies to push themselves around while seated.
At what age should I introduce a walker for my baby ?
The short answer is NEVER.
Babies should not be given a walker as it is not safe and it delays child’s walking, so ideally there is no safe age to introduce walkers.
Why are baby walkers not safe?
The safety of baby walkers has been a significant concern for paediatricians. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other Paediatric bodies baby walkers can be dangerous as they may allow infants to reach hazardous areas faster than their caregivers can respond. Walkers can lead to serious injuries such as falls down stairs, burns, and poisoning from household items that become accessible to the child .
In some countries, baby walkers have been banned due to their high risk of injury. Canada became the first country to ban the sale, importation, and advertising of baby walkers in 2004 . Although baby walkers are still sold in other countries, many manufacturers are required to adhere to safety standards that reduce the risks of injury.
What are the safety risks associated with baby walkers?
The most common injuries related to baby walkers include:
Falls: Babies can quickly roll towards stairs, uneven surfaces, or sharp edges, leading to head injuries.
Burns: Walkers increase access to hot surfaces like stoves or heaters, resulting in burn
Poisoning: Babies in walkers can more easily reach household cleaning products, medications, or small objects, putting them at risk of ingestion or choking .
Do baby walkers help babies learn to walk ?
Baby walkers do not help infants learn to walk. In fact, studies have shown that they may delay the development of walking and other motor skills. Walkers encourage babies to rely on their toes, which can interfere with natural walking patterns . It’s important for babies to spend time on the floor, practicing activities like crawling, standing, and eventually walking without assistance.
Can the baby use a walker if supervised by parents/caregivers ?
Adult supervision also cannot be relied on to prevent infant walker-related injuries. Moving at more than 3 ft/sec, an infant can be across the room before an adult has time to react. In one study, 78% of children were being supervised at the time of the injury. Other studies have also shown that many of these events occur with both parents in the room
Are there alternatives to baby walkers?
Yes, there are safer alternatives to baby walkers that promote healthy motor development without the associated risks:
Stationary activity centres: These keep babies entertained with toys and other activities while they remain in a fixed position.
Floor play: Encouraging supervised tummy time and free movement on the floor helps babies build the muscles they need for crawling and walking.
Push toys: These allow babies to practice walking while providing support, but they do not have wheels attached to the seat, making them safer than walkers.
At What Age Should My Baby Start Walking?
Walking is a natural milestone that varies from one child to another. Most babies start walking between 9 and 15 months, although some may walk as early as 8 months or as late as 18 months. Rather than using a walker, allow your baby to develop at their own pace, with plenty of supervised floor time to help them strengthen their muscles and practice standing.
What do paediatricians recommend for infant mobility?
Paediatricians recommend that infants be allowed to develop their motor skills naturally by spending time on the floor and practicing sitting, crawling, and walking. It is also recommended that caregivers use baby-proofing measures to ensure a safe environment while babies explore on their own. By giving babies the opportunity to move and explore safely, parents support the healthy development of essential skills .
What can parents do to ensure safe use of walkers if they still insist on using a baby walker?
If parents still insist on using a baby walker despite safety concerns, it is crucial to take the following precautions however these precautions are not foolproof.
Ensure that the walker meets safety standards
Only use walkers on flat surfaces, and avoid areas near stairs, kitchen, or sharp corners.
Always supervise the child closely and limit the amount of time spent in the walker.
Use a walker in a safe, enclosed space to minimize risks of injury.
Baby walkers may seem like a convenient tool for helping infants explore their environment, but they come with significant risks and no proven developmental benefits. Paediatricians recommend avoiding baby walkers in favour of safer alternatives that encourage natural motor development.
If you have concerns about your baby's mobility or development, it is always best to consult your paediatrician for guidance.
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