Baby Highchairs

Every parent owns one and every child needs one from the time they can sit up. They are a great way for an infant to sit in to play with their toys or for eating. I like the highchair for when I am trying to cook, clean or reading and my child sits in it. Before choosing a highchair for your baby, take a moment to think how you will use it. Will you always have the highchair at the table or will you need a chair with a tray? Is there rooom for the baby's highchair to stay out or perhaps you need to fold it away when not in use?

Highchairs currently come with all kinds of features that are really more for the parent or caregiver than the child. Although the nicely padded seat covers make the seats comfortable. Some highchairs have wheels to make them easier to move however this is not necessary. Some are now coming with height adjustable mechanisms to accommodate your child's growth and to be able bring the baby closer to the table.

There are also adjustable foot rests to accommodate your child's growth as well. Most now fold for easy storage. They come in all different colors and are affordable. There are things you can do to make the highchair safe place to be. Never leave your child unattended to go grab a bib, food, or answer the phone. It only takes a second for your baby to have an accident. You should have everything ready before putting your child in the chair. If a child is to buckled in they can and will get out. When it's time for your baby to join the family at the dinner table, look for a high chair that offers adjustable seat heights, a removable seat cover for easy cleanup, wheels for moving the chair, and a folding option if storage space is an issue.

The chair should also be equipped with a sturdy safety harness and a crotch post that connects the tray and seat and prevents your child from sliding out. Your child should always be strapped into the highchair without exception. The feeding tray will not prevent your baby from slipping under it and falling to the floor and possibly incurring an injury. If an older child slips under the tray they could get stuck and be injured.

Some great and highly recommended high chairs to buy are the:

Recline 'N Dine Deluxe Kolcraft, $40 If you want a low-priced chair complete with fancy features, look no further.

Simplicity High Chair Evenflo, $80 Whether you're sitting at the table, lounging on the couch, or standing by your baby's side, you'll be able to find the perfect height adjustment on this model - there are eight to choose from.

Harmony High Chair (Model 3960) Graco, $119 This deluxe model has tons of features to make mealtime easy for you and fun for your baby.

From 6 months to the stage where he/ she is too big to sit in it comfortably and can use his/ her weight to rock it. Up to three years old for convertible highchairs/ booster seats. Of course, highchairs are also fantastic for keeping growing babies busy playing with their toys. This will inevitably mean you are going to do a lot of picking up - so watch your own back. Moving up into a highchair is an exciting stage for your baby - and for you. Above all - never leave your baby alone in a highchair.