The Forerunner: Everything You Need to Know About This Device
Experiencing the moment when your little one takes its first steps is certainly one of the most exciting and memorable events in any parent's life. The prewalker often appears as an attractive tool designed to encourage and support this stage. In this article, you'll discover everything you need to know about pre-sleeping - from the benefits to the precautions, so you can make the best decision for you and your baby.
Understanding the Forerunner
The pre-walker, also known as a "walker", is a device designed to support young children who have not yet fully developed the motor skills necessary for walking. Structured as a suspended chair in a wheeled frame, the walker allows the child to move by pushing the legs off the floor. The use of the walker varies from culture to culture, and although it may seem like a popular option, it is essential to understand all the implications of its use.
Motor Development and the Pre-Walker
Using a walker may seem like an effective way to encourage motor development, but pediatric health experts warn of potential risks. The child uses different muscles when walking compared to those activated in the natural process of learning to walk. This can lead to a possible delay in motor development as the child becomes more dependent on the support of the walker and learns to balance their body weight differently. It is essential that, before introducing the walker into the child's daily routine, we consult a child development specialist.
Language development
An often overlooked aspect when it comes to toddlers is the impact on language development. Children who are active and explore the world freely are more likely to start vocalizing and imitating the sounds around them. By limiting natural movement, the walker can restrict these vital learning opportunities. Social interactions may also be affected because the child will be at a different height to the adults and children around them.
Safety and the Forerunner
One of the biggest concerns about walkers is safety. The risks of accidents increase exponentially when a child is in a walker, as they can quickly reach dangerous areas such as the stairs or the kitchen. Statistics show that walkers have been associated with a significant number of injuries globally. For this reason, it is crucial to have constant monitoring when the child is using a walker and to ensure that all dangerous areas are inaccessible.
Alternatives to the Forerunner
In light of information about the potential risks of strollers, many parents are choosing safer alternatives. Stationary activity centers, where the child can stand and play without being able to move, are a solid option. Bouncers or activity tables also promote motor development, encouraging the child to stand up and walk around them without the risk of uncontrollable movement.
How to Choose the Best Prewalker
If you choose to use a walker, here are some tips to choose the most suitable one: - Make sure the walker is safety certified. - Choose a model that allows for height adjustment so that it can be adjusted as the child grows. - Prefer walkers with wheels that have a braking system to prevent uncontrolled movement. - Avoid models with hanging toys, as they can cause injuries if the child falls.
Guiding the Child in Using the Prewalker
Regardless of whether you have made the decision to use a walker, it is important to guide and monitor your child carefully. Ensures a safe environment free of obstacles and potential hazards. Encourage your child to also spend time without a walker to develop physically and socially naturally.
Conclusion
The pre-walker can be a delightful sight for any parent, but it must be used with caution and responsibility. Understanding the risks, alternatives and methods of choosing a safe walker is essential to your child's healthy development. Don't forget to balance the time spent beforehand with activities that stimulate the child's natural development. Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to use a walker should be based on well-documented information and the individual needs of each child.
