High Chair FAQ – All About High Chairs!

You’ve mastered changing diapers, successfully navigated the maze of baby clothing sizes, and you’ve managed to get a few precious hours of sleep between feeds. But now, as your little one grows, a new question is starting to crop up in your mind: when and how should you introduce a highchair into your baby’s daily routine? If you’re asking yourself these questions, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many parents and caregivers find themselves asking the exact same thing.

Let’s take a friendly stroll through the world of highchairs, answering some of the most frequently asked questions and providing helpful insights along the way. Remember, every baby is unique and will progress at their own pace. When it comes to your little one, your instincts and your pediatrician’s advice will be your best guides.

When can my baby sit in a highchair?

Generally, your baby can start using a highchair when they can sit up on their own, which usually happens between 5 to 7 months of age. I know babies were closer to 9 months, but it was more about their sensory sensitivities and claustrophobia than about their physical development.  Remember the mantra: “Every baby is different.” Some might be ready a little earlier, while others might need a bit more time. It’s crucial not to rush this stage because the ability to sit unsupported indicates that your baby’s neck muscles are strong enough to support their head, preventing potential injuries.

I recall my eldest, Ryan, was almost eight months old before he showed any interest in sitting up in his highchair. In contrast, his younger sister, Emily, was practically launching herself into it at just five months. It’s amazing how different they can be!

Can you put a baby in a highchair before they can sit?

Well, in short, no. A highchair is not a place for a baby who cannot sit up unsupported. Using a highchair before your baby can sit up can put them at risk of slumping over and possibly choking. It’s not worth the risk, even though you might be eager to involve your little one in family mealtimes.

When Emily was a tiny thing, we would sometimes bring her to the table in her infant seat so she could be part of the action while we were eating. But we waited until she was ready before transitioning her to the highchair.

What are the benefits of highchairs?

Highchairs bring a slew of benefits for you and your baby. They provide a safe and secure place for them to experiment with foods, promoting self-feeding and fine motor development. As your baby interacts with different food textures and tries to find their way around a spoon or a piece of soft carrot, they’re learning and growing in incredible ways.

Beyond the developmental perks, highchairs also help establish routine and independence. They’re a clear signal to your baby that it’s mealtime. Plus, they give your little one a sense of belonging at the family table.

And let’s not forget the benefits for parents! Having your baby in a highchair gives you both hands free to eat your own meal or even catch up on a few quick chores.

You might also find this post helpful: What to do when baby is acting hungry but won’t eat!

How can I feed my baby if I don’t have a highchair?

If you don’t have a highchair or are traveling, there are a few alternatives. One option is using a portable clip-on seat that attaches to the table, provided the table is sturdy and the seat is securely attached. These are also handy if you’re short on space at home.

Another option could be a baby booster seat strapped to a regular chair. Just make sure it has a harness to keep your baby secure. I remember a family vacation where we forgot our trusty travel highchair. All it took was a bit of improvisation with a sturdy dining chair and a few extra cushions, and we had a makeshift baby booster!

Some parents even find that a well-positioned and secure car seat does the trick, especially when on the go. Remember, the key is safety. Always keep an eye on your baby, no matter what kind of seat they’re in.

When can my baby sit in a highchair at a restaurant?

When it comes to dining out, you can usually start using restaurant highchairs once your baby can sit up unsupported, much like at home. Again, this is typically around 5 to 7 months.

Always check the safety and cleanliness of restaurant highchairs before putting your baby in one. If the restaurant’s highchair doesn’t have a safety strap or appears unstable, it’s best not to use it. I’ve found that carrying disposable wipes for a quick clean and a portable harness can be life savers in such situations.

Here’s a fun little anecdote for you. Once, when Emily was about eight months old, we went out for dinner. The restaurant’s highchair was less than desirable – it had no harness and seemed a little wobbly. My husband and I took turns holding Emily while we ate. Not the most comfortable dining experience, but Emily found our juggling act utterly hilarious!

When can my baby stop using a highchair?

Most babies transition out of the highchair between 18 months to 3 years of age, but there’s no set rule. Some signs your little one might be ready include trying to climb in and out of the highchair on their own, appearing uncomfortable or restrained in the chair, or simply showing interest in sitting at the table like the ‘big’ people.

As with everything else, this transition should happen at your child’s own pace. Booster seats are a great intermediary step between highchairs and regular chairs, offering the necessary height adjustment while allowing them to sit at the table.

When Ryan started climbing out of his highchair at about 2 years old, we knew it was time to switch. His transition to a booster seat was so smooth that we used the same approach with Emily when she started showing similar signs of readiness.

How to Choose the Right Highchair

Choosing the right highchair for your baby depends on many factors, including your budget, available space, and lifestyle. Some parents might prefer a highchair with all the bells and whistles, while others might opt for a basic, easy-to-clean model.

Here are a few great options that you might consider:

Graco Blossom 6-in-1 Convertible Highchair

Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

This is the BMW of highchairs. It’s an extremely versatile highchair that grows with your child. The chair has six height positions and three recline levels to allow for comfortable feeding for your baby.

• 6-in-1 convertible chair
• Three recline levels (so you can let sleeping babes lie).
• Six height adjustments (you’d be surprised how handy this is)
• Easy to clean (trust me, this is important).

Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair

A stylish and durable highchair that can be adjusted as your child grows, even into adulthood. Its timeless design and quality materials make it a long-term investment.

• Adjustable seat and footplate (great for accommodating babies as they grow)
• Solid construction
• Easy to clean (see above and thank me later).
• Longevity: suitable for all ages
• Ergonomic design

Joovy Nook Highchair

A compact highchair that combines comfort and convenience. It folds up neatly for storage, and the swing-open tray makes it easy to get your baby in and out.

• Compact and easy to fold (highchairs can take up a lot of space).
• Swing-open tray with 4 adjustable positions
• Easy-to-clean leatherette seat
• Lightweight design

Fisher-Price Space Saver Highchair

Perfect for those with limited space, this high chair offers all the features of a full-size high chair but in a compact, portable design. It straps securely to most dining chairs and grows with your child.

• Space-saving design
• Securely straps to most dining chairs (nice and portable and you can avoid restaurant highchairs).
• Adjustable height and recline positions.
• Machine-washable seat pad
• Converts to a toddler booster seat.

Inglesina Fast Table Chair

A portable, clip-on highchair that’s perfect for families on the go. This chair can be attached to most tables and is easy to carry around.

• Easy to attach and secure.
• Lightweight and portable
• Comfortable and washable fabric (baby food can really creep into the tiniest fold, so this is great)
• Suitable for use at home or while traveling.

Safety Tips for Using a Highchair

It’s crucial to remember safety when it comes to using a highchair. Always use the safety straps, even if you feel your baby is secure. A wriggly baby can quickly become a tumbling baby if they’re not properly secured.

Also, keep an eye on your baby while they’re in the highchair, ensuring they don’t try to stand or climb out. Highchairs should also be positioned away from walls and counters to prevent babies from pushing against these surfaces and potentially tipping the chair over.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Highchair

A highchair is bound to get messy during mealtimes. Choosing a highchair with a removable and washable tray can make your life much easier. Similarly, highchairs with wipeable or machine washable seat pads can also be a godsend.

For those dried-up food bits, a toothpick or an old toothbrush can be very effective. Remember, regular cleaning can help keep your highchair in good condition and prevent the growth of bacteria.

Wrap Up – High Chair FAQ

Mealtimes with your baby are more than just about nutrition; they’re about exploration, bonding, and growth. Highchairs play a big role in this adventure, making them an essential part of your baby’s journey. Keep the process safe, enjoy the mess, and let the memories unfold. Introducing your baby to a highchair is an exciting milestone with numerous benefits. Like many aspects of parenting, it comes with questions and uncertainties, but trust yourself. You know your baby best. I hope this FAQ has provided some helpful guidance, reassurance, and a little laughter from one parent to another.

Enjoy the journey, parents! You’re doing a fantastic job.

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