Parents are constantly inundated with ads and recommendations for the latest and greatest baby gear and toys. There’s so much out there that it can be difficult to know what is good for your baby, what’s just okay, and what can actually be harmful to their development.
At No Limits Pediatric Therapies in Bentonville, AR, our goal is to help children reach their full potential through expert care and personalized treatment plans. In this blog post, I want to talk about the best practices for using baby seats and toys to support your baby’s development based on my experiences as a pediatric occupational therapist.
The Drawbacks of Baby Seats and Walkers
Many parents rely on carriers, swings, bouncers, and walkers to safely hold their child while handling other tasks. While these containers can be convenient, spending too much time in them can negatively affect your baby’s development.
Common conditions that can arise from excessive use of baby seats and walkers include toe-walking, poor coordination, and torticollis. These issues occur because the containers restrict natural movement and limit the baby’s ability to explore and develop their motor skills.
Babies Benefit from Exploring Their Environments Without Being Contained
We don’t want to restrict a baby’s movements because that prevents them from experiencing the full range of sensations in their environment. Instead, we recommend parents provide ample tummy time and ensure they have a safe space for babies to move around and explore. Not only is this more interesting for the baby, but it can lead to significant developmental benefits.
Free movement helps babies process more sensory input, improve foot and arch development, and gain better control and awareness of their bodies. These foundational skills are crucial for many other developmental milestones.
Choose Safe, Non-Toxic Toys and Household Objects
While baby seats and walkers may seem like a safe option, baby-proofing your home (or specific areas of your home) is a better choice for promoting exploration and development. Think of it this way: would you rather be stuck sitting in a chair all day, or would you prefer to move around and find something to do?
Another common question I hear from parents is what types of toys are best for baby’s development. I always recommend you consider the materials and safety of the items. Many plastic toys can be made with unsafe materials, which can post a risk when babies inevitably put them in their mouths.
I recommend parents choose toys made from cloth and/or wood, which are generally safer and less likely to contain harmful chemicals. Ensuring that the toys are non-toxic and free from small parts that can be swallowed is essential for your baby’s safety and overall wellbeing.
Reach Out to No Limits for an Evaluation
If you have concerns about your baby’s development or want to ensure they are on the right track, reach out to No Limits Pediatric Therapies. Our team of skilled therapists is here to help your child grow beyond their limitations.
Call us at (479) 250-9838 for a free 15-minute developmental consultation to find out if your child might benefit from pediatric therapy. Together, we can support your baby’s growth and development so they can reach their fullest potential.
About Terrica
Terrica Weatherford, MSOT, founded No Limits Pediatric Therapies in 2016. She earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2012. For over 13 years, Terrica has been committed to helping neurodiverse children (and those who need extra support) reach their full potential. She founded her practice to ensure she could provide exceptional care for children and their families.
