Did you know baby walkers are banned in Canada?
The main reason for this ban is the numerous accidents caused by sit-in walkers. Many babies fall downstairs, burn, drown in pools, and even get poison since they can reach products they were not able to reach before. Nonetheless, all of these happen when babies are left unattended. However, baby walkers can still be hazardous even with supervision. Sitting baby walkers put babies in an unnatural position that can be harmful to their spine, legs, and ankles.
The muscles use to scoot are different from the ones used to walk which can cause developmental delays. Also, they give babies the chance to move before they are developmentally ready to do so. Baby walkers are designed for babies between 4 to 16 months old and should not be used by younger babies.
On the other hand, a push toy or push walker helps the baby walk when he is able to do it with some assistance. It stimulates the baby’s interest in moving and gives him speed. It will also help the baby move places he might be able to reach without it so its usage needs to be under adult supervision. They also come with added toys babies tend to love.
There are not many benefits to baby walkers or plush toys so you could just skip them altogether. But, if you are trying to decide between these two like I was a few weeks ago, a push toy is definitely the way to go!