Jessica Sapel

Parents are bombarded with the variety of baby equipment on the market and want to make sure their child has everything they need to develop age appropriate skills. The Bumbo seat is a popular item to help your infant sit upright before they are able to do so independently.  I was recently introduced to another seating system by a family I work with--The Infant Positioner by Mamas & Papas brand.  Both seats offer back and trunk support, leg positioning supports, and a removable tray.  In contrast, the back and sides of the Bumbo seat come up a little higher than the Mamas and Papas seat, and your child will be provided with more support around their trunk.  The Mamas and Papas seat has a removeable inner lining so your child can use the seat later as they grow and become independent with sitting. There are several other seating systems on the market that offer varying levels of support and accesories, and each child may have their own preference and needs. 

As with any piece of positioning equipment, a baby needs close supervision while in the seat. Babies that spend a lot of their time on the floor and moving around their environment will develop the strength, balance, and coordination they need for motor skills later in life, however a short amount of time in a seat can be fun and a different activity as well.  Please check out one of my previous blogs  that discusses suggestions to make the best use of a seat and encourage your child's development.

If you have any questions about whether a Bumbo, Mamas and Papas, or other seat is appropriate for your child, or other questions about their gross motor development, please contact a physical therapist at Child and Family Development to discuss your concerns.