Infant Walker Injuries have Doctors Calling for Ban
by Liz Coffman
Sep 25, 2018
The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention has released a study advocating for the complete ban of infant walkers.
Also known as "exersaucers", infant walkers have caused numerous deaths since the 1970s and were responsible for 230,676 infant injuries between 1990 and 2014.
Despite what many parents might believe, the AAP has stressed that walkers do not facilitate walking or other motor skills. In fact, according to AAP chair Dr. Benjamin Hoffman,
"I view infant walkers as inherently dangerous objects that have no benefit whatsoever and should not be sold in the U.S."
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The main type of injuries caused by these "exersaucers" come falling down stairs or gaining access to an environment that has not been baby proofed.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, the AAP explained:
"Because the safest baby walker is one without wheels, stationary activity centers should be promoted as a safer alternative to mobile walkers."
Ultimately, the choice is up to you as a parent when making these decisions for your baby. Visit this page to read more about the study.
Liz Coffman
Liz Coffman has worked in the advertising industry for over 7 years and is passionate about connecting people to the world around them through her writing. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Liz is also a professional musician, avid rock climber, hiker and adventure seeker.
