Baby Walkers: Does Your Baby Need One

Learning to walk is a crucial milestone in a baby's development. Many parents consider using a baby walker toy to aid their child in this process. However, to choose a walker that genuinely supports your baby's growth and encourages safe walking, parents should understand the different types of walkers available and the potential risks involved.

What Is Baby Walker?

Baby walkers come in two main types:

Baby walker with wheels

Traditional baby walkers have wheels and a suspended seat that allow babies to move around. They are designed for babies and toddlers who are not yet able to walk on their own.

Baby push walker

Generally composed of wheels, a main body and a handle, baby can hold the handle and learn to walk by pushing the walker. This kind of walker is generally suitable for babies who can already stand with the help of something but cannot walk on their own yet.

baby walker with wheels vs. baby push walker

Is Baby Walker Necessary?

Of course NOT.

Learning to walk is a gradual process for babies. Generally, babies will first learn to crawl, then slowly stand up, and finally learn to balance their bodies and start walking on their own. In this process, a walker is just an auxiliary tool.

Baby Walker with Wheels or Baby Push Walker?

We recommend using baby push walker to support babies' natural development. As babies' legs grow stronger, they will begin to stand independently by holding onto walls or furniture, like sofas. At this stage, introducing a push walker can provide the necessary support, helping the baby master balance and learn how to walk effectively.

Why Not Wheeled Baby Walker?

While a wheeled baby walker seems safer for toddlers to sit in it rather than using a push walker without additional protection, it still poses many hidden dangers.

Impact Leg Strength.

Because babies are sitting in the car, most of their body weight is supported by the seat rather than the legs, which will affect their leg strength training and learning to control the balance.

Wrong Walking Posture.

When using a wheeled walker, if the height is too high, the baby may use the toes to move; if the height is too low, the baby's legs may be bent when moving. These situations will cause babies to develop a wrong walking posture.

Easily Leave the Safe.

After mastering the walker, babies can move quickly, leaving the parents' sight, and even leaving the safe range, which is easy to cause accidents such as rolling down the stairs and touching dangerous objects (such as kettles, irons, etc.).

In contrast, the baby push walker allows babies to stand and support their own weight, encouraging a more natural walking motion. While they still require supervision, push walkers move at a slower pace and give parents better control over their baby's movement, reducing the risk of accidents.

When Baby Push Walker Can Be Used?

A baby push walker is typically suitable for babies aged 8 to 12 months. However, each baby develops at their own pace. It's a good idea to consider getting a push walker if your baby displays the following behaviors:

Pulling themselves up to a standing position
Cruising along furniture
Supporting themselves with minimal assistance

Picking The Best Push Walker: 5 Must-Haves

When picking the best baby push walker for your little one, there are several important factors that ensure both safety and enjoyment. Here's what you should look for:

Non-toxic, Durable, and Smooth Materials

It's crucial to choose a push walker made from high-quality, non-toxic materials to keep your baby safe. BPA-free plastic or solid wood walkers are great choices. Additionally, the walker for baby should be well-made, with no sharp edges or rough surfaces that could harm your baby's sensitive skin.

Proper Handle Height

Ensure the handle is at an appropriate height for your baby. It should allow them to hold on comfortably without bending too much or stretching their arms too high. The handlebar height of KUB Baby Walker is 16.5 inches (42cm), which is perfectly suitable for the height of babies around 1 year old.

Suitable Weight and Stable Structure

Push Walkers should be weighted enough to provide stability but not so heavy that it's difficult for your baby to push. A stable structure (such as a pyramid or triangle structure) with a large leg movement space will reduce the chances of tipping over, ensuring your baby can explore safely.

KUB baby push walker has a 42cm high handle and a stable triangular structure, which is not easy to tip over

Anti-slip Wheels and Speed Control

Look for walkers with anti-slip wheels and speed control features. These features are essential to prevent the walker from moving too fast. KUB Baby Walker has lockable wheels, which can significantly increase wheel resistance and slow down the walker.

Interactive and Educational Features

Many push walkers come with built-in activities that can stimulate your baby's curiosity and development. Consider walkers that include lights, music, or activity panels with shapes and colors to encourage fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and sensory development.

(Note: The music on many walkers can become the most annoying noise in the house. You will be grateful if the music can be turned off or the volume can be controlled.)

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll find the best baby walker that not only helps your baby practice walking but also fosters their physical and cognitive development.

Safety Tips for Using Push Walker

While baby push walkers are safer than baby walker with wheels it's essential to prioritize your baby's safety during use. Here are some tips to consider.

Always supervise your baby to prevent falls or injuries.
Use the walker on flat surfacesto avoid tipping.
Choose safe, enclosed spacesfor your baby to use the walker, away from stairs or hazardous areas.
Consider adding weight to the walker for added stability, especially in the early stages.

A baby girl pushing a pink KUB baby walker

Conclusion

Choosing the right baby walker depends on your baby's stage of development and individual needs. While traditional baby walker with wheels may seem convenient, baby push walkers offer a safer and more developmentally supportive option for babies learning to stand and walk.

Every baby develops at their own pace, and no tool can replace the loving guidance and patience of parents during this important milestone. Take the time to assess your baby's readiness, and always prioritize safety when selecting any baby product.

Baby Walkers: Does Your Baby Need One?

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