New parents are bombarded with a dizzying array of baby products. While many are helpful, some are unnecessary, and others are downright dangerous. Pediatricians particularly warn against baby walkers.
So, what exactly is a baby walker?
When your little one starts pulling themselves up and getting ready to walk, you’ll see lots of products designed to help, like activity centers and push walkers. But baby walkers are different. They pose unique risks, according to Holly Choi, a child safety expert and co-owner of Safe Beginnings First Aid.
“We’re talking about those seated devices on wheels,” Choi explains. “The baby sits inside, their feet touch the floor, and they can scoot themselves around by pushing off.” This happens before they’re ready to walk on their own.
These contraptions – basically a suspended seat within a wheeled metal frame – are exactly what the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends against.
Why are baby walkers so unsafe?
The AAP has actually called for a ban on them due to the risk of serious injury. Thankfully, fewer parents are using them these days. But back when they were popular, baby walker injuries were a common cause of ER visits for babies under 15 months old.
A study in Pediatrics found that between 1990 and 2014, over 230,000 babies wound up in the ER because of baby walker-related accidents. Head and neck injuries accounted for over 90% of these cases. You might think you can prevent accidents by keeping a close eye on your baby, but these injuries can happen in seconds, even with supervision. Often, parents and caregivers simply don’t have time to react.
Biggest concerns while using baby walkers
Falls are the biggest danger with baby walkers. In that same Pediatics study, over 74% of the injuries were from falls down stairs. “A baby in a walker can move surprisingly fast,” says Dr. Loretta Cody, a pediatrician at Sacred Heart University. “They can reach the stairs or bump into something before a parent has a chance to react. This can lead to serious injuries, like head trauma or broken bones.”
Burns are another concern. A baby in a walker can suddenly access things they normally couldn’t reach, like hot food, radiators, stovetops, or space heaters, warns the AAP. Dr. Cody adds, “Because they’re higher up, they can grab things on tables. Imagine them pulling a tablecloth and spilling hot coffee all over themselves.”
Even drowning is a risk. A baby in a walker can quickly move themselves into dangerous situations near pools, bathtubs, or even toilets. “They can lean over and fall in before anyone can stop them,” explains Dr. Preeti Parikh, a pediatrician and executive medical director at GoodRx.
Finally, baby walkers give little ones access to all sorts of hazards. Holly Choi points out that they can crash into cabinets and walls, or reach dangerous objects like knives, scissors, batteries, and even medications. “Putting something like that in their mouth could have devastating consequences,” she says. The AAP also warns that baby walkers increase the risk of poisoning.
Baby walker myth
Many parents think baby walkers will help their child learn to walk faster, but that’s actually a myth. They can even encourage bad walking habits, says Dr. Parikh. “Putting a baby in a walker lets them move their legs, but learning to walk is about more than just leg movement,” she explains. “Being able to pull themselves up, stand, and balance their weight is much more important.” She recommends letting your baby pull themselves up on furniture and practice “cruising” instead. Plus, baby walkers can encourage toe-walking, which isn’t good for developing proper walking skills.
Recommended alternatives
It’s natural to want to help your little one as they start exploring their mobility, and keeping them entertained is always a bonus. Luckily, there are plenty of safe options.
- Stationary activity centers: Dr. Parikh recommends these as a great alternative. “They don’t have wheels, so babies can rotate and pull themselves up to stand,” she says. Many activity centers also have fun features like lights, music, and buttons to keep babies engaged.
- Play yards or playpens: These are a safe way to contain your little one while giving them space to play, says Dr. Parikh. You can also use baby gates to block off safe areas for them to explore as they start cruising. Just make sure to baby-proof the area thoroughly!
- Push walkers: These are a much safer option for encouraging walking. Unlike traditional baby walkers, push walkers don’t have a seat. “The baby holds onto the walker and pushes it along,” explains Holly Choi. “This eliminates the risk of them picking up too much speed and getting injured.” The AAP also agrees that sturdy push walkers, like push cars or wagons, are a good alternative.
Remember to always stay in touch with your baby’s pediatrician about their progress and let them know if you have any concerns.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The content provided on this blog is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health, treatment, or the health of your child. Reliance on any information provided on this blog is solely at your own risk.
