Babies grow quickly, and as a parent, you may wonder when to move your baby from their pram bassinet to the toddler seat. Each baby is different; some may be ready to switch sooner than others. However, moving your baby at the right time will keep them safe.
Let’s explore the key signs that tell us if a baby is ready to move from a pram bassinet to a pram seat.
Key Points
- Most babies are ready to move from a pram bassinet to a toddler seat around six months
- The toddler seat you purchase for your baby should have a five-point harness and proper head and neck support
- Your baby reaching the weight requirement of a toddler seat unit is a great sign that they are ready to transition out of their pram bassinet
- As your baby grows, a pram seat is a more suitable place for them to travel
Content in this article:
- When Are Babies Usually Ready To Move From A Pram Bassinet To A Seat?
- What Should You Look For When Moving A Baby From Pram Bassinet To Pram Seat?
- The Benefits Of Moving A Baby From A Pram Bassinet To A Pram Seat
- How Can I Make The Transition From Pram Bassinet To Pram Seat Easier?
When Are Babies Usually Ready To Move From A Pram Bassinet To A Seat?
Babies are usually ready to move from a pram bassinet to a toddler seat when they can sit up unassisted. This typically happens around six months of age. However, each baby is different, and monitoring your child’s development is essential. Some babies may be ready to transition sooner or later than average. Parents should talk to a healthcare professional if unsure or worried about their child’s development.
Toddler seats often offer your child a more comfortable ride than a pram bassinet – especially when they can sit unaided. They’ll probably want to see everything around them rather than just lying on their back! Toddler seats are also more spacious and adjustable so that you can find the best seating position for your little one.
What Is A Pram Bassinet?
A pram bassinet is a seating unit that attaches to the pram chassis, giving newborn babies a flat and firm surface to lie on while you’re out and about. Pram bassinets are often safe for sleeping, which is excellent for newborns, as they tend to sleep for the majority of the day.
Pram bassinets often have large canopies to protect your baby from the sun. They’ll have a thin mattress and padded sides for comfort. Pram bassinets are designed for newborns and will often have a lower weight limit for babies up to six months of age.
What Should You Look For When Moving A Baby From Pram Bassinet To Pram Seat?
Below, we’ve detailed some of the telltale signs that your baby is ready to move to a pram seat:
- Your Baby Can Hold Up Their Head And Neck
This is one of the main signs that your baby is ready for an upright position in a pram seat. Your child needs to be able to hold their head up independently to remain stable throughout the journey. At this stage, they might also be more interested in seeing things around them than just lying down.
- Your Baby Has Reached The Weight Requirement
Most toddler seats have a minimum weight requirement to reach before they can be used. Once your baby has reached the minimum weight limit, they’ll most likely be ready to move from their pram bassinet to a toddler seat.
- Your Baby Can Sit Up On Their Own
Sitting up independently often means your child can hold their head and shoulders and control their movements through their core muscles. Once they have reached this major milestone and can sit still independently without falling, they’ll most likely be ready to move into their pram seat.
The Benefits Of Moving A Baby From A Pram Bassinet To A Pram Seat
Moving a baby from a pram bassinet to a seat has many benefits. The main advantage is that your baby can admire the world around them rather than just look up at a canopy. As they age, your child will get more intrigued about where they’re going and how to get there. So, they’ll love their new toddler seat once they’re ready to make the transition.
Another benefit is that many toddler seats are compact and lightweight, making them easier to fold with the pram chassis. Toddler seats take up less space than a bassinet so you won’t lose as much storage space at home or in the car boot. Plus, the pram with a toddler seat attachment will be easier to fold and lift into the car.
How Can I Make The Transition From Pram Bassinet To Pram Seat Easier?
Making the transition from pram bassinet to pram seat can be challenging for babies, but there are several things you can do to make it easier. Parents should always aim to make transitions a positive experience for babies; this is the first step to any big adjustment.
Second, use a pram seat that fits your baby well. Ensure the straps are tight enough and the seat is positioned at the correct angle. The seat should be comfortable with enough padding; a footrest will go a long way in making a comfy seat.
Third, maintain a consistent routine for getting in and out of the seat. When your baby knows what to expect, it can make the transition smoother. Remember to be patient and give lots of love and cuddles throughout the process. While moving from one seat to another might not seem like a big deal to us, it can be very confusing and stressful for a little baby. So take your time with them.
Final Thoughts On When To Move Baby From Pram Bassinet To Seat
Both pram bassinets and toddler seats are essential pieces of baby equipment when getting out and about with your baby. A pram bassinet keeps newborn babies safe and comfortable, while toddler seats support growing babies and toddlers as they get more interested in the world around them.
You should move your child to a pram seat when they are ready – when they can hold their heads up, sit up independently, and have reached the minimum weight limit of the toddler seat. This usually happens around six months, although some babies develop quicker or slower than others.