Baby Gear Age Guide
“What age can my baby use a stroller?” “When can they face forward in a carrier?” “Is a bouncer safe for a newborn?” Parents ask these questions every day. Our free Baby Gear Age Checker gives you evidence-based answers for 15 types of baby gear — with minimum and maximum ages, required developmental milestones, safety warnings, and tips — all sourced from Health Canada, Transport Canada, the Canadian Paediatric Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Select a gear type below to see the recommended age range, safety guidelines, and developmental milestones required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can a baby sit in a stroller forward-facing?
Most babies can sit in a forward-facing stroller around 6 months of age, once they can sit upright independently and have full head and neck control. Before that, use a stroller with a bassinet attachment or fully reclined seat.
What age can a baby use a bouncer?
Bouncers can be used from birth (newborn) until baby can sit up unassisted, usually around 6 months. Always place on the floor, use the harness, and never let baby sleep in a bouncer due to suffocation risk.
What age can a baby face forward in a carrier?
Babies can typically face forward in a carrier around 5–6 months of age, once they have strong head and neck control. Limit forward-facing sessions to 20–30 minutes to avoid overstimulation, and choose an ergonomic carrier that supports healthy hip positioning.
Are baby walkers legal in Canada?
No. Baby walkers with wheels have been banned in Canada since 2004 under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act. It is illegal to sell, import, advertise, or give away baby walkers in Canada. Penalties include fines up to $500,000 or imprisonment. Use a stationary activity center instead.
What age can a baby use a high chair?
Babies can typically start using a high chair around 6 months of age, when they can sit upright unassisted and are ready to begin solid foods (as recommended by Health Canada). Always use the safety harness.
When can a child switch to a forward-facing car seat?
Transport Canada, the Canadian Paediatric Society, and the AAP all recommend keeping children rear-facing as long as possible — at least until age 2 AND until they exceed the rear-facing seat's height or weight limits. Rear-facing is significantly safer for young children.
When can a child use a booster car seat?
A child can transition to a booster car seat once they are at least 4 years old AND at least 40 lbs, and have outgrown their forward-facing car seat's harness limits. They must use a booster until the vehicle seatbelt fits properly — typically around 4'9" tall (145 cm).
What age can a baby go in a bike trailer?
The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends waiting until a child is at least 12 months old before using a bike trailer. The child must be able to sit upright independently, have sufficient neck strength for bumps, and wear a properly fitted helmet.
Is a Bumbo seat safe for my baby?
Bumbo seats can be used from around 3–4 months once baby has head control, but ONLY on the floor. Never place a Bumbo on a table, counter, or any elevated surface — serious injuries have occurred from falls. Limit use to 10–15 minutes at a time.
What age can a baby use an exersaucer?
Babies can typically use an exersaucer from around 4 months, once they have strong head control and their feet can touch the base. Limit sessions to 15–20 minutes. Exersaucers are a safe alternative to banned baby walkers in Canada.
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