Portable high chairs are one of the most common pieces of furniture used for a baby in the U.S. Once a baby is old enough to sit up and start taking solid foods, she may sit in a high chair. This allows her to be face-to-face with her parent and to be a part of the social activity at a family meal. While a portable high chair is a comfortable place for a baby to sit during a feeding, high chairs have also been associated with injuries.
Options
There are various kinds of portable high chairs and parents may choose according to their own needs. High chairs that are stand-alone are available as traditional wooden high chairs; metal chairs and plastic, foldable chairs. Each type has options for convenience, durability or appearance. Regardless of the chosen style, a high chair should be safe. Chairs should be free from splinters or sharp edges. Those on wheels should have a locking mechanism, and adjustable chairs should be secure to avoid collapse.
Leaving a Baby Alone
A baby should never be left alone in a high chair. Unattended, a child could slip down underneath the tray and become trapped. He may also try to grab at nearby objects, which could result in pulling the chair over while reaching. Even older babies who are feeding themselves should not be left alone during mealtimes, as they could choke on a piece of food while a caregiver is not close by.
Safety Belts
A waist belt is one of the most important safety aspects of a high chair. Waist belts prevent children from standing and potentially falling; or slipping under the tray table. Waist belts come as a strap that secures around the waist and another that is locked between the legs. Both types must be used together to ensure safety. When buying a new high chair, look for brands that offer a column that locks between your baby's legs, which will keep them in place and prevent her from slipping down in the seat.
Stability
Most high chairs come with a wide base of support to prevent the chair from tipping. Babies that are able to stand or rock back and forth in a chair can potentially tip it over. Older babies may also push from an object, such as a table, or attempt to pull on a secure item if it is within reach. A chair with a wide stance is less likely to be overturned by an active baby.
Other Tips
There are several other tips to keep in mind for the safety of a portable high chair. Chairs with wheels should be locked whenever a child is sitting. Other adjustable components, such as the tray table, recliner, footrest and folding mechanism should all be locked into place to reduce chair movement while in use. When buying a chair, look for models with high safety standards, and never buy a used chair that does not meet safety recommendations or that has been recalled.
