When your child reaches about 6 months, or can sit up unassisted, it might be time to purchase a highchair. Your baby will be thrilled to have his/her own space, one that is specifically just for him/her to eat, drink, snack, and play.

Within the decision to buy a highchair is the decision as to whether you want your child to eat in his/her own space, or to join the family table. Most people think of a highchair as being a confined unit away from the family table, but there are some parents who prefer to have their youngster learn to eat along with the rest of the family from a very early age. How is this possible?

There are several highchairs which are specifically made for this lifestyle choice, notably the TRIPPTRAPP chair from Stokke (a Norwegian company which has been making chairs and furniture since the 30s). This innovative design has actually been around for about 25 years in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, and has only in the past few years made a spash in the rest of the world. Practically speaking, this chair can start with the 6 mos old baby and 'grow' with the child until early teens. In fact, once the safety bar has been removed, an adult can sit on this chair.

What to look for in the standard highchair:
1. Sturdiness - make sure it looks/feels as though it can actually hold the weight of a child - stable legs;
2. Wheels which lock - if the chair is on wheels, they MUST be able to lock;
3. Removable tray - it is difficult to clean, let alone get the child in and out of the tray does not remove;
4. 5 point safety harness - must have a safety harness or function to prevent the child from falling/climbing out;
5. Safety post - this is a post which is positioned in between the child's legs, and prevents the child from 'submarining' below the chair and dropping to the floor, serious injury or death could occur.

Other Options:
When visiting friends, relatives, or restaurants, you might want to consider purchasing a chair support which actually clips/attaches on to the side of the table (NOT to be used on drop side table tops, etc). This is a great way of saving space, too. Make sure that you are comfortable with attaching the chair before placing the child.
Another option is to buy a portable chair cushion and safety harness - all in one! Folds up and can easily fit in the diaper bag or under the stroller, etc.

Expecting a baby soon? The NU2YU Baby Shop would like to make some suggestions on buying a Layette for your wee one here in Beijing - from birth to 6 months:
1. ONSIES/DIAPER SHIRTS - short sleeve/long sleeve. aim for 3-6 mos range. 6 each;
2. GOWNS - these are legless shirts which extend past the feet. 2 - 3 each;
3. SLEEPERS - classic baby sleeper with feet. 5 - 7 each;
4. BLANKET SLEEPERS - something like a Grobag or Sleepsack, can replace the use of blankets in the crib especially in the summer or fall in Beijing. 1-2 each;
5. PLAY OUTFITS - heavier than a sleeper, with or without feet. 3 - 5 each;
6. SOCKS - 3 - 4 pairs;
7. SWEATERS - 1 - 2 light cotton sweaters for Beijing's fall;
8. HATS - use a light cotton cap even in late summer here in Beijing. 2 - 3 each;
9. BUNTING - beginning in November/December you will need something protective when taking baby outside;
10. DROOLING BIBS - depends on how much jr. drools. 3 -4 each;
11. WASH CLOTHS - these are very multipurpose, so stock up. 10 to 20 each;
12. RECEIVING BLANKETS - swaddling, bath, sleep cover, play, these are also very useful. 5 to 8, get a variety of sizes.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to drop by NU2YU or give Karen a call: 6508 2388.