How Old Should a Baby Be to Use a Walker?

Six to 15 Months

Baby walkers may provide greater freedom for infants.

Manufactured for babies aged 6 to 15 months old, baby walkers may give greater mobility and freedom to explore, providing a baby with more opportunities to keep herself occupied and stimulated. A busy caregiver may not have time to sit and play with an infant.

Concerns About Safety

Due to safety concerns, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends banning walkers.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended a complete ban on all walkers due to safety concerns. Dangers include babies in walkers falling down stairs or tipping over, with heaters, stoves and hanging appliance cords increasing the risk of burns and electric shocks. Access walkers provide to toilets, baths and swimming pools are just some of the other hazards highlighted.

Bottom Line

Pushing carts provides greater opportunity to develop motor skills needed for walking.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) states that walkers are safety hazards and delay babies' motor skills, such as crawling and pulling themselves up. Walkers do not strengthen a baby's hips and upper legs, which is necessary for walking. A cart or car to push around is more effective in helping a baby's mobility and coordination, according to HHS.

References

• KidsHealth: Choosing Safe Baby Products, The Dangers of Walkers
• ConsumerReports.org: Baby and Toddler, Baby Walkers; April 2007
• "Healthy Start, Grow Smart; Your 11-Month-Old;" U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Education and Health and Human Services; 2002
• North Dakota Child Care Resource and Referral: Restrictive Environments
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; Brief on Infant Walkers; May 12, 2010

Resources

• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; Brief on Infant Walkers; May 12, 2010