The Right High Chair Can Help Feed a Hungry Baby

Why Do U Need  a Baby High Chair?

Babies don't really need high chairs for feeding purposes until they start eating solid foods, usually after 6 months of age.

Some parents prefer to buy a high chair early on, though, because high chairs can be useful as a landing place for baby even before the little one is throwing carrots.

Even parents who are delaying the introduction of solid foods due to extended breastfeeding may find use for a high chair, which allows baby to join the family at the dinner table and see all of the action.

Is the High Chair Safe?

The number of bells and whistles on your baby high chair is a matter of personal choice, however, you should be careful to choose a high chair that is safe.

Check the harnesses for security, make sure there's a bar of some sort between baby's legs to prevent slipping under the tray, and check the overall sturdiness of the high chair.

If you're considering buying a used high chair, be sure to check for recalls.

Several high chairs have been recalled recently, for safety issues that range from minor to very serious.

Basic high chairs

Basic high chairs are simple and compact, and they generally work quite well. These models are essentially plastic seats on legs made of plastic or steel tubing.

Midpriced high chairs

Mid-priced high chairs can offer many convenience features, including multiple tray and chair heights; casters for mobility (with a locking feature for safe parking); a reclining padded seat for infants.

High-end high chairs

High-end high chairs include European imports and traditional models in solid wood. Not surprisingly, chairs at the top of the market tend to have a sleeker.

Booster chairs

Booster chairs are similar to high chairs, but without legs; you attach them to a regular dining room or kitchen chair. Some offer typical high-chair features.

Portable hook-on chairs
 
For parents traveling with little ones who don't feel like lugging a booster seat along or aren't fans of restaurant high chairs, portable seats that hook onto tabletops are an option. Most hook-on chairs are suitable for children from about six months to about three years, usually weighing up to 37 pounds.

When it comes to selecting a high chair, try not to be overwhelmed by the choices on the market: there are literally dozens: classic or modern, wooden, plastic, or metal, among other options. Let's start where it all began, the wooden high chair.

Look carefully at the high chairs you're considering to make sure that the one you choose will suit your needs. Don't forget to look for a certification sticker. Certified high chairs have a completely bounded opening (created by the sides of the chair and the tray) and are required to have a passive crotch restraint and at least a three-point harness.