Proper Highchair Posture
Let’s talk about your baby’s posture while eating.
Postural control is an important factor when it comes to safety while your baby is eating. But it’s about more than just having strong enough head control. The chair your baby is sitting in has a lot to do with your baby’s posture. Many caregivers are unsure of how to make adjustments if needed.
If it seems like your baby has a lot of wiggle room to lean over in their highchair…
Try this:
Make sure your baby's highchair has a foot rest, and tuck a rolled towel behind their back.
If you already own a highchair that does not have a foot rest, you may be able to find add-on foot rests.
A foot rest helps “ground” your baby. Without one, they will feel like they are floating in their seat, making it much more difficult to sit upright. Try sitting on a barstool and removing your feet from the foot-rest while you try to eat. Not so easy, is it?
A rolled towel provides added stability around your baby's trunk if the seat is too roomy. You can wrap it around their sides, if needed.
Bon appétit!
P.S. Looking high chair recommendations? I’ve got you covered here.
P.S. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for skilled physical therapy intervention. While I am a physical therapist, I am not your child's physical therapist. If you have questions or concerns about your child's health and/or development, please contact your pediatrician.