(Last Updated on 16 August 2022)
As a new parent, you may feel overwhelmed with the number of “must-haves.” While there’s no getting around raising little humans without cost, there may be some items you can live without. Is a feeding chair one of those items?
You may consider not having it because of space and storage, versatility, and cost. But the core of the matter is while a traditional high chair may not be suitable for you, your baby does need a place to eat.
The most important thing for your baby is their safety; this applies even in feeding. Don’t rely on a seat not designed for feeding and may compromise security. Though using something like a swing or a bouncy chair at the table may seem easier, there are risks and safety dangers.
Some parents overlook the importance of high chairs, despite the fact that they are one of the most important pieces of furniture for new parents. Feeding babies and toddlers are made easier with high chairs. High chairs are stable no matter how restless the child may be; they would not be able to rock the chair down. Seatbelts and safety straps are also built-in for extra security. High chairs also have a tray attached to the armrest for adults to place the food in.
Aside from the apparent reason of making feeding time more manageable, high chairs also teach the child to become independent; it also includes the child during mealtime and improves their behavior when eating out. But when is your child ready for a high chair?
A baby is considered ready once she can sit upright without support. They should show pretty good stability and control when seated and must have the ability to hold their head up. High chair manufacturers will have an age recommendation for each chair; most recommend waiting until a baby is 6 months old.
Choosing a High Chair
When selecting a high chair, make sure to check all your options. Consider durability, ease of cleaning, safety features, wheels, versatility, and size to help you make the right choice for your space, lifestyle, and personal preference when shopping for a high chair.
Here are the main highchair types and what they offer:
Traditional highchairs – traditional highchairs are the ones that are big, comfortable, and practical. Yet, they take up a lot of space, so they are only suitable if you have a decent-sized dining room. They usually have a removable food tray, a basket underneath, and oversized padded cushions to make your baby comfortable.
Here are some traditional highchairs you can get on Amazon:
Contemporary highchairs – contemporary highchairs look fabulous, funky, and stylish. They are usually packed full of the latest design technologies.
Here are some contemporary highchairs you can get on Amazon:
Children of Design 6 in 1 Deluxe High Chair for Babies & Toddlers
Munchkin 360° Cloud Baby High Chair with Clear Seat and 360° Swivel
Folding highchairs – a folding highchair could be ideal for space problems. They can be all sorts of designs but tend towards the more traditional style. They’re usually lighter and more easily lifted for storage.
Here are some folding highchairs you can get on Amazon:
Cosco Simple Fold High Chair with 3-Position Tray
Summer Pop ‘n Sit Portable Highchair
Boosters – a booster is not usually suitable for children younger than 12 months. Even at that age, they will still need something with a bit more support. But as an easy-to-carry option, boosters are ideal.
Here are some boosters you can get on Amazon:
Summer Deluxe Comfort Folding Booster
Fisher-Price SpaceSaver Simple Clean High Chair
Clamp-on seats – Clamp-on seats can be clamped onto the table rather than attached to a chair. Most fold down enough to be carried around. They’re tested for safety and usually can accommodate a child up to 3 years of age. They’re unlikely to damage your table but be aware that they won’t fit every table.
Here are some clamp-on seats you can get on Amazon:
Seat harnesses – Seat harnesses or chair harnesses are a fabric option wrapped around a chair’s back and your child. It can be used instead of a booster or travel highchairs, but it won’t give your baby any height; they will just secure them in place.
Here’s some sear harness you can get on Amazon:
Portable Baby High Chair Safety Seat Harness for Toddler
Once your baby is ready to sit in a high chair and has already purchased one that fits your needs, it will make your mealtimes a lot less hectic. Just make sure you and your baby are ready for this big step.