Best Containers: Seats, Tables, and Walkers
Not all containers are created equal. Some can help you keep your baby safe, like car seats and high chairs. Some can help you get a few necessary tasks done at home, like take a shower or cook at a hot stove. Some can teach your baby a few fun and necessary skills, like exploring a stimulating activity table. But some can hinder your baby’s development and ability to reach appropriate milestones.
So how to do you know which ones to choose and how to use them. First, check out our expert tips here. Then scroll down to see what we recommend.
Here are some of our favorites for different stages:
The best book on ditching containers and allowing for appropriate development:
The best products for newborns and infants:
The goal here is to support your baby’s development and keep them safe. We’re looking for product that don’t hinder their growth and strength, while also providing some of the help you need.
The best baby seat:
This seat encourages appropriate posture and prompts your baby to strengthen their core muscles to learn to sit on their own. Other seats just prop your baby in the position, but keep them from actually learning to sit.
The best stand-in activity table:
This activity table was created by a physical therapist with your baby’s development in mind. It has an adjustment platform to ensure you can get the appropriate height for your baby and allow them to keep their feet flat. The platform is unstable, forcing your baby to work on their balance and strength. And it’s easy for your baby to control their actions by spinning around from activity to activity.
The best push-walkers:
Push-walkers are a much better choice than walkers that your baby would stand inside, which we do not recommend. With these walkers, your baby gets just enough support to help them learn to walk on their own but not so much that their own skill and strength development is hindered.
