Last updated: January 2026
Most babies are ready for a high chair between 4-6 months, when they can sit upright with minimal support and have good head and neck control. The key sign is not age alone, but whether your baby can sit steadily without slumping - this is essential for safe eating. A high chair makes feeding easier for parents and helps establish healthy eating habits early.
Watch: Always look for this early hunger cues.Do you feed your baby only after they start crying?
| Ready Sign | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Head control | Holds head steady without support |
| Neck strength | No head flopping or wobbling |
| Sitting ability | Can sit upright for several minutes |
| Core strength | Doesn't slump over when sitting |
| Upper body control | Shoulders straight, arms free to move |
| Age | Typical Readiness |
|---|---|
| 4 months | Some babies starting to show signs |
| 5 months | Many babies developing readiness |
| **6 months** | Most babies ready (also when solids start) |
| 6+ months | If not ready yet, keep practicing |
Important: Age is just a guideline. Readiness signs matter more than exact age.
What to Do If Not Ready:
If Baby Can't Sit Properly:
Proper Position For Eating:
Imagine This:
Try eating with your head bent down, looking at your lap. You'll find it difficult to swallow comfortably. Same for baby!
Correct High Chair Position:
Features to Look For:
Types of High Chairs:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size | Sturdy, adjustable | Takes space |
| Booster seat | Portable, affordable | Less features |
| Portable/travel | Easy to carry | Less stable |
| Convertible | Grows with baby | More expensive |
Before First Use:
Every Time Checklist:
Location Guidelines:
What to Avoid:
Always Use Harness:
Most Accidents Happen Because:
Before Baby Sits:
Creating Good Habits:
Always:
Never:
Why Feet Need Support:
Adjust Footrest So:
Ready for high chair = Ready for solids!
Both require:
When Baby Sits at Table:
Consult Pediatrician If:
Physical Therapy May Help If:
A: Age se zyada important hai baby ready hai ya nahi. Check karo: kya baby apna head steady rakh sakta hai? Kya bina support ke kuch der baith sakta hai? Agar haan, then ready hai. Agar head flop hota hai ya slump ho jata hai, thoda wait karo.
A: Start with short periods - 10-15 minutes for meals. Baby will show when they're done (fussy, trying to get out, throwing food). As baby grows and enjoys mealtimes, can extend to 20-30 minutes. Never force baby to sit too long.
A: Depends on your needs. Full high chair has more features and is more stable, but takes space. Booster seat is portable and affordable, works if you have a sturdy dining chair to attach it to. Either is fine as long as it's safe and has good straps.
A: Food throwing is developmentally normal! Around 8-12 months, babies explore by throwing. Stay calm, offer small portions, say "food stays on tray," and if throwing continues, calmly end the meal. They'll learn over time. It's messy but normal!
A: Most children use high chairs until 2-3 years. Transition to booster seat or regular chair when child is too big for high chair, can sit safely at table, and understands not to stand on chair. Always use appropriate child seat until they're truly ready.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. A high chair makes feeding safer and helps establish healthy mealtime habits from the start.
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