Congratulations, you have a newborn! Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. It’s normal and you are not alone. You hear so many worrisome stories. I’d hear things like, “Don’t let them sleep on their belly or they’ll die.” “You should buy organic clothes. Non-organic irritates their skin.” “You’ve got to handle them just right or you’ll cause damage that can’t be undone.”
It can be difficult shutting out the noise. So many questions. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out another one pops up: When to stop using an exersaucer?
Benefits
Exersaucers are a great thing for your baby. It has a rewarding impact on your baby’s health and development. It promotes organ growth, builds core leg-muscle strength and encourages reaching and stretching in your child’s spine and neck. It also improves your child’s tactile responses. They’re also great at keeping your baby occupied while you tend to other chores.
Typically, exersaucers have an age-range between 4 and 11 months, a weight-limit of 30 pounds and a maximum-height of 30 inches. So, how do you know when to stop using an exersaucer?
When to Stop Using an Exersaucer
A good rule of thumb to stop use is if your baby starts crawling out of it. The more mobile your baby gets the less they’ll want to stay in it. When they are crawling, standing or pulling themselves up with more frequency, that’s a great indicator that it is time to wean them off of it.
This can happen anywhere from seven months to 24 months. It all depends on how fast your baby develops. I’ve found there’s no right or wrong answer on this one since some babies develop faster than others.
Know that they’re going to want the freedom of mobility the more they are able to walk or crawl around. Usually when they’re at this stage they won’t last longer than 15 minutes in one until they get bored and want out.
It can vary, but the average age tends to be around eight months. However, do not worry if your child is still using theirs after this age. Let your baby remain in it as long as is necessary. You can also judge by your child’s height and weight. If they are getting too big for it then it’s time to say goodbye.
Final Thoughts
The most obvious way is to trust your baby. Your baby will let you know when it’s time to stop using an exersaucer. Your child is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. I’ve heard stories of friends with late walkers using theirs up to 21 months!