Baby Bouncers: Can I use a bouncer for a newborn?
This post answers the question “can I use bouncer for newborn”?
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It can be tempting to use a baby bouncer as a way to keep your newborn occupied, but it is important to be aware of the risks associated with this type of seat.
According to idealbaby.com, bouncers are appropriate for babies aged 3 months to 18 months, and door bouncers are only for babies aged 6-18 months. The seats on baby bouncers are lightweight and can easily be moved from one place to another, making them convenient for caregivers.
However, paediatricians advise against the use of bouncers because the inclined position can result in sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS (death of the infants due to suffocation). Additionally, Thebump.com advises that young infants should not nap in a bouncer and that caregivers should transfer them to a safe baby bed (flat and firm) as soon as they notice them being drowsy.
Although bouncing can’t cause shaken baby syndrome, it is best practice to avoid using baby bouncers altogether and allow your newborns plenty of time to rest flat on their backs.
What is a baby bouncer?
A baby bouncer is a seat designed to bounce or rock a baby using their own body weight. They can be freestanding or have a door attachment.
Baby bouncers are appropriate for babies in a certain age range, from 3 months to 18 months.
Pros of using a baby bouncer:
- A baby bouncer can be a lifesaver for parents, giving them a chance to take a shower, unload the dishwasher or prepare a meal.
- Bouncers are convenient because they are lightweight and can be easily moved from one place to another.
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Cons of using a baby bouncer:
- The inclined position of the bouncer can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- Bouncers are not recommended for use as a napping place for babies, as they can become drowsy and fall asleep in the bouncer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bouncer safe for newborn?
No, bouncers are not safe for newborns. According to idealbaby.com, bouncers are appropriate for babies aged 3 months to 18 months, and door bouncers are only for babies aged 6-18 months.
The seats on baby bouncers are lightweight and can easily be moved from one place to another, making them convenient for caregivers. However, pediatricians advise against the use of bouncers for newborns because the inclined position can result in sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS (death of the infants due to suffocation).
Additionally, Thebump.com advises that young infants should not nap in a bouncer and that caregivers should transfer them to a safe baby bed (flat and firm) as soon as they notice them being drowsy.
How long can a newborn be in a bouncer?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that young children not sit in the same position for more than one hour. As such, it is advised that babies not spend longer than one hour in a bouncer. (Source: babybjorn)
Can bouncer cause shaken baby syndrome?
No, shaken baby syndrome does not occur from gentle bouncing, swinging or rocking.
Caregivers should avoid jostling infants or tossing them in the air, but gentle bouncing, swinging, or rocking won’t harm them.
Source: Thebump.com
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Are baby bouncers bad for development?
Many parents use bouncers as a way to let baby entertain themselves and have a short break to go to the washroom, or even grab a coffee. However, many parents are concerned about whether baby bouncers are bad for development.
The truth is, using a bouncer itself is not necessarily bad for baby development, and it is perfectly okay to have these items in your home. However, where it becomes more of an issue, is if you use bouncers excessively.
According to this article, excessive use of bouncers can cause developmental delay, because baby’s time spent on the floor practicing crawling and using gross motor skills will be limited.
So if you are keen on using baby bouncers, know that it’s not necessarily bad for development. Just make sure to avoid excessive use of them.
Can baby sleep in bouncer during the day?
No, a bouncer should not be used for napping. The bump recommends that parents lift their child to a safe baby bed (flat and firm) as soon as they sense drowsiness. In addition, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises that young children should not sit in one position for more than an hour.
What is baby bouncer used for?
A baby bouncer may be used for a variety of things, such as keeping your baby contained for a short time, allowing you to shower or cook, or entertaining your child so you can work. It’s crucial to note that bouncers should not be used for more than an hour at a time, and that babies should be transferred to a safe infant bed as soon as they become drowsy.
Conclusion
In short, no—bouncers are not safe for newborns. The inclined position of the bouncer can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, bouncers are not recommended for use as a napping place for babies, as they can become drowsy and need to be transferred to a safe infant bed. Ultimately, it’s best practice to avoid using baby bouncers altogether while your baby is a newborn, and allow your newborns plenty of time to rest flat on their backs. If you do use a bouncer, make sure to follow all safety guidelines and never leave your child unattended.
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