By Olivia DeLong, former senior health editor at BabyCenter and What to Expect.
Having your baby sit in a high chair alongside you at dinner feels like a big milestone, and it is!
Most babies are able to safely sit in a high chair around four to six months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). However, it ultimately depends on your baby and their development.
Before starting solid foods, babies should be able to hold their heads up steadily and sit safely with support in a high chair, according to the AAP. While this typically happens between four and six months, every baby develops at their own pace, so it’s always a good idea to check with your pediatrician before getting started.
So how can you tell your baby might be ready for the high chair, and those first real foods? Read on to learn more.
Signs your baby is ready to start solids and sit in a high chair
If your baby is approaching the four month mark, it’s probably time to start looking for signs they’re ready for solid foods. One of those signs is being able to sit upright in a high chair. Look for these other signs from the AAP, too, then okay it with your pediatrician before you let them dig in (literally!):
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They can sit up alone or with a little bit of support.
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They can control their head and neck well.
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They open their mouths when you offer food.
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They swallow their food rather than letting it fall out of their mouth.
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They have started bringing objects to their mouths regularly.
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They attempt to grasp small objects, such as toys or food.
If you’re unsure, you can always talk to your baby’s provider to learn if they’re ready or need more time.
High chair safety tips
Once you do pop your little one into the high chair, be sure you’re always watching them of course, and be mindful of these safety practices from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:
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Make sure you have a high chair that was manufactured on or after June 2019, since high chair guidelines were last updated then.
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Always use the safety straps as instructed in your manual. Adjust the straps so that your child fits snuggly. If there’s a tray, just hooking that on is not enough to keep them securely in the chair.
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Make sure your baby or child doesn’t stand up or climb while in the high chair.
If you’re looking for a high chair that’s safe and functional, Lalo has two options that are both home runs, plus they’re aesthetically pleasing, too. The Hook-On High Chair is great for on-the-go or counter spaces, while The Chair is such a great staple for your dining area.
Kimberly Grenawitzke, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES, IBCLC, CNT, feeding expert from Solid Starts says that hanging or hook on high chairs are more supportive than you'd think, “Traditional hanging chairs tend to be large and lack structure. The new, well-designed hook-on chairs offer a snug, secure fit that actually supports your baby's posture while they eat, as well as a harness system to keep them secure.”
Good luck with the first foods! It might be messy, but it sure is a good time.
FAQS:
What features should I look for in a high chair?
Look for a sturdy base, a secure harness, an easy-to-clean surface, and adjustable height or footrest options. Safety and comfort should always come first.
How do I safely introduce my baby to a high chair?
Start with short, supervised sessions. Make sure the chair is stable, use the safety straps, and never leave your baby unattended. Keep mealtime calm and engaging so they associate the high chair with positive experiences.
When should I start feeding my baby solid foods?
Most babies are ready for solids around four to six months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. That’s because they’re developmentally ready around this time, meaning they can sit up on their own and they are showing signs they’re curious about what you’re eating.
Can I put my 3-month-old in a high chair?
Generally, no. At three months, most babies don’t yet have the core strength or head control needed to sit safely in a high chair. It’s best to wait until they show physical readiness signs, usually closer to four or six months. If your child is showing that they are developmentally ready earlier, great! Just ask your pediatrician for the green light.
What are the signs my baby is ready for a high chair?
You’ll know your baby might be ready if they can hold their head steady, sit with support, show interest in food, and open their mouth when food is offered. These cues usually go hand-in-hand with readiness for solids.
