Ni Highchairs Including little ones in the chatter at tea time We find out why highchairs are so important
Family meal times are crucial for baby’s learning and development - at the same level as the rest of the family, baby can see and hear everything that’s going on, while in a low baby chair, there is little opportunity for social interaction at a key time in their development. Highchairs are, therefore, one of the most important purchases a parent will make.
First used when baby is sitting up confidently alone, a high chair needs to be strong, durable and easy to clean. Retailers should ask customers which room mealtimes are to be taken in to help them make the most practical choice. A compact and easy to fold pushchair is useful if space is limited, while in the larger home, something in keeping with the décor and which grows naturally with the child might be just as important.
Safety and functionality should always be considered first; finding the right colour and style will then follow. Retailers should recommend highchairs that have a wide base and low centre of gravity. Wheels and locking mechanisms should be checked in store so that customers can be confident that baby will be secured safely. Baby should not, however, be left alone in the high chair – parental supervision is vital at all times. While a highchair with wheels is great if baby is to be moved from
room to room, the strength of the locks must be checked regularly to prevent any accidents. Similarly, if a customer opts for a folding highchair, retailers should demonstrate that the folding mechanism locks well and operates easily, ensuring it can not be folded accidentally while in use.
The key questions for consumers are: How comfortable is it? Will it cater for his changing needs? How much room will it take up? Does it have a harness? Is the tray a good size? How easy will it be to keep clean? Is the seat cushioning replaceable?
Customers will of course have a budget. A multi-function highchair that converts into a separate low chair and table when baby is a toddler will save the consumer money in the long run, despite being a little more expensive than the standard option at the outset. There are a range of additional features that retailers should discuss as part of the sales process. From extra padding to reclining seats; adjustable footrests to removable seat covers and trays; divided trays to an extra or double layered tray, there are a number of options. Not all highchairs come with a harness. Consumer safety guide Which? explains: “Many high chairs can be fitted with a harness - either four - or five-point - even if one isn’t supplied. You can fit a harness yourself if the high chair has D rings. Check your high chair’s user manual. If the chair is compliant with a harness, it will say so. The D rings are positioned at the back of the seat or just under it,” it adds. Retailers should therefore demonstrate how to use and attach the harness, before completing the sale. From bibs to cups, bowls to spoons, the purchase of a highchair necessitates a whole range of other feeding equipment, allowing retailers to maximise on this important purchase with a host of ‘add on’ sales.
16 • NURSERY INDUSTRY
• NOVEMBER 2012
•
www.nursery-industry.co.uk
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