THE PROS AND PITFALLS OF BABY GEAR
With
the Myriad of Baby Products Out There, Few things bring more excitement into a household than the arrival of a baby. In the months leading up to the big event, new parents-to-be go on happy shopping sprees, purchasing everything their new bundle of joy might possibly need. From bottles to bassinettes, today’s stores feature a mind-boggling myriad of adorably enticing baby gear. It is important to always remember, though, when selecting baby equipment safety must come first. It is unfortunate but true that some baby equipment manufacturers have forgotten that crucial rule: Cute does not necessarily equate with safe. The very latest bells and whistles may actually harm your precious baby, rather than protect him. So before you purchase one single piece of baby gear, do your homework. Educate yourself on baby equipment recalls, and don’t forget to ask your chiropractic doctor what gear is best – and worst – for your baby’s health and safety. Are Walkers Good For Your Baby? Contrary to popular opinion, a baby walker does not help your child learn to walk. Quite a bit of scientific research has been conducted on this subject, and the overall consensus is that baby walkers actually hinder the development of motor skills and coordination. Baby walkers also put your child at risk for serious injury. Several studies have shown that the use of baby walkers is the number one cause of fall-related injuries. The use of
a baby walker also puts your child’s spinal development at risk,
forcing the spine into an erect posture before it is physically strong
enough to do so. This leads to premature spinal degeneration. With
So Many Different Types of Baby High Chairs on the Market,
Any high chair you consider should have a safety harness or belt, preferably one that fits across the hips and between the legs. Also be sure that the tray locks securely onto the chair. Wooden high chairs are frequently a popular choice with parents who like the classic look of a high gloss wooden chair. Unfortunately, these modern wood high chairs are more likely to show wear and tear as well as stains. Typically, a better choice is a high chair made of plastic or metal. They clean up easily, are highly durable and usually have a comfortable padded seat to cushion your baby’s lower back and bottom. There is one cardinal rule when it comes to high chairs, and that rule is never leave your child unattended in a high chair. And always take the time to properly secure your child in the safety harness. If the harness is missing or the high chair does not offer this feature, do not use it. Remember, safety first. Children, especially toddlers, can climb out of high chair seats and fall, or rock the high chair until it topples over. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2003 alone an estimated 9,200 children under the age of five suffered serious injury related to high chair falls. By doing your homework before purchasing baby equipment, following safety recommendations, and keeping an open line of communication with your chiropractor and OBGYN, bringing home baby will be the beginning of exciting milestones, wonderful memories, and life-long good health. .............................................................. |