Contents
Is a Push Walker Right for Your Child? Here’s What Experts Say
As parents, we always seek toys that are fun for our baby and also provide some help toward our baby’s development. One toy that has been debated for many years by various professionals and parents is a push walker. But is it really good for your baby’s development? Let's review what child development specialists have to say about push walkers, including benefits, possible drawbacks and how to find the right one for your baby assuming you are looking for a wooden push walker or a baby push toy.
What is a push walker?
A push walker is a wheeled toy that is intended for babies to push who are learning to stand and walk. In general, push walkers are typically utilized with babies between 9-18 months, supporting developing balance, coordination and muscle strength to help a child move. Most importantly, it promotes development for babies with no low seated restriction unlike seated baby walkers.
Benefits of a push walker
According to pediatric occupational therapists, push walkers if used appropriately can provide extensive developmental benefits in the following areas:
Promotes muscle development:
- Develops muscle strength in legs, core and arms
- Encourages standing and cruising independently
Promotes balance and coordination:
- Provides babies the opportunity to practice controlled steps
- Provides body awareness of proprioception
Encourages Independent Play:
- Enhances confidence in movement
- Babies feel independent to explore
Functions as a BabyPush Toy:
- Most push walkers have toy or activity panels built into them
- Keeps baby double engaged while promoting fine motor development
What Professionals Say:
Safety First:
Although they are beneficial, professionals suggest that the baby walker must be used as indicated under supervision and on safe, flat surfaces.
Things to Not Do:
- Use with babies on stairs or uneven surfaces
- Heavily rely on walkers before the baby can stand to support themselves
- Use them as a substitute to floor time
Pro Tip: Use a walker that allows controlled movement and in a stable fashion.
- Use of durable, environmentally-friendly materials
- Sturdy build quality prevents tipping
- Usually includes built-in shape sorters or blocks
- Free of harmful plastics and chemicals
When to Introduce a Push Walker?
Your child is generally ready to try a push walker when they can:
- Sit up independently
- Pull themselves up while trying to stand
- Walk while holding onto furniture for balance
- Show interest in independent upward movement
Typically, that age range is approximately 9 to 12 months but every child develops at their own pace. If you have any concerns, always consult your pediatrician.
Final Thoughts: Is a Push Walker Right for Your Child?
A push walker can be a very reasonable developmental choice if selected thoughtfully and used properly. No matter whether you purchase a colorful push toy for babies or a minimalist wooden push walker, please be careful to choose something age-appropriate that ensures safety and promotes natural movement for your child.
Ready to grab the perfect walker for your little one?
Shop our selection of baby push toys and wooden push walkers keeping safety, fun and child development in mind.