This or That: A Push toy or A walker?
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I’m sure you’ve seen examples of both of these popular toys before. A Push Toy is something that your baby stands behind and can pull up to standing with. A walker, on the other hand, is a baby container that you place your baby in. They are a prime example of the billion-dollar baby industry selling you something they shouldn’t!
If you’re considering registering for or buying a toy like this, there’s some things I want you to know
- Baby walkers aren’t safe. They’ve been known to allow children to walk outdoors, fall downstairs, or reach hot or dangerous items that normally would not be accessible to them.
- Baby walkers do not promote normal walking patterns and have been linked to increased incidence of toe walking and hip dysplasia when used improperly
- Baby walkers have been found in some cases to delay independent walking
But Mama, hear me say this: I see you. I love you. I’m with you! I have this knowledge because it’s my JOB to. And now that you have it, too, you can use it to make the best decisions for your little family—whatever that may be.
Push toys, however, are a beautiful bridge to independent mobility. They fill your baby’s craving to move while also activating neurological patterns that simulate a typical walking pattern. They allow your baby to build confidence and strength in a safe and supported position. They are purposeful play defined!
You can find some of my favorite push toys here on Amazon! Or save the cash for something more important and flip over a laundry basket or throw your old college textbooks in a bulk-sized diaper box—both perfect solutions to the need for a “push toy”.
I’m here for you, Mama. You have made the best decision you could with the information you had at the time. No guilt. No shame. All of the grace. You got this!
