Bumbo, Bumbo, Everyone Loves A Bumbo...

We have a bouncer and a highchair for Escher and they serve us well. For example, the bouncer gives me the opportunity to shower and keep an eye on Escher; Doug and I can eat dinner while Escher relaxes in his bouncer or in his highchair. However, the bouncer keeps Escher in a reclined position and limits him to the lights and toys it came with (not very interactive, if you ask me) and the highchair is technically still too big for him. He can't reach his toys on the tray very well...and the straps don't get small enough (we never leave him unattended).

Enter The Bumbo.

The Bumbo is a baby seat. The design supports the back and torso; the seat is lower than the feet, creating a passive restraint that prevents slipping and sliding! Babies who are able to hold their head up can sit unassisted (although not unattended)in a Bumbo. A friend of mine has a son that is 4 months older than Escher. Since he can sit all by himself and crawl around, we are borrowing the Bumbo for Escher.

I think it's wonderful! In it, he can sit up (and improve muscle tone and posture) and play with his toys on the Bumbo tray (sold separately). Toys that suction cup to the tray are also sold separately, but I find his toys work just fine. So what if they fall off and I have to pick them up? The Bumbo is made of a low density foam material, is lightweight (albeit, a bit bulky) and is easily transported! I can't wait to take it with to the Grandparents' houses!

As with any baby product, there are warnings...DO NOT use on a raised surface. The Bumbo is for floor level use. DO NOT leave your child unattended while in the Bumbo (or EVER, for that matter). While the Bumbo is nicknamed "The Baby Sitter," please note: it is not intended to replace a child's caregiver! The Bumbo is not a restraint, either. Babies can get out of Bumbos...stop using the seat when your child can get out of it!!! Bumbos have been recalled because of improper use. Consequently, new warnings and instructions have been sent out with Bumbos.


Recalls and foolish parents aside, the Bumbo is a great asset to our repertoire of baby gear. They can be purchased at most major box stores and also online. Prices run about $35-40 for the Bumbo and $10 for a Bumbo Tray. The company Sassy, makes suction cup baby toys that work well with the seat/tray. They also run about $10 each.