As parents, our priority is to keep our babies safe, happy, and engaged. But what if some of the most popular baby products we rely on—like jumpers, Bumbos, and other container devices—are doing more harm than good? While these tools may seem like a convenient way to manage our little ones, placing babies in positions they can’t naturally achieve on their own may interfere with their development in some surprising ways.
Let’s dive into how these devices can affect your baby’s nervous system, spinal development, and even digestion, and what you can do to support their growth in a healthier, more natural way.
The Main Issue with “Container Babies”
Babies are born with underdeveloped nervous systems and spines that gradually adapt as they grow. Each milestone—whether it’s rolling, crawling, or sitting up—helps form their spine’s natural curves and supports nervous system development. Pllacing babies in devices like jumpers, Bumbos, or walkers too early can negatively impact this process.
For instance, jumpers force babies into a standing position long before they have the muscle tone or coordination to support their weight. Similarly, Bumbo seats place babies in an upright position before they can naturally sit on their own. These positions bypass critical developmental stages, leaving babies reliant on external support rather than building the strength and coordination they need to assume these positions on their own.
How It Affects the Nervous System and Spine
One of the most concerning effects of these devices is how they can harm the baby’s nervous system and spinal development. The spine serves as the body’s central support structure, playing a critical role in communication between the brain and the rest of the body. When babies are placed in unsupported positions, their spinal curves may develop improperly, leading to misalignments, called subluxations, that disrupt the proper function of the nervous system.
These subluxations can have a ripple effect on the body, particularly in systems like digestion. Subluxation can interrupt nerve communication to the digestive organs, resulting in issues like constipation, excessive spit-up, or reflux—common problems seen in babies who spend extended periods in containers like Bumbos or jumpers. These issues arise because the digestive system relies on proper nerve signals to function efficiently, and stress on the spine and nervous system interferes with this process.
Delayed Motor Development and Milestones
Beyond digestion and spinal health, these containers can delay key motor milestones. Babies need plenty of floor time to naturally explore their environment and develop essential core muscles, balance, and coordination. By relying on containers, babies lose valuable opportunities to strengthen their muscles and develop motor skills. This can delay important milestones such as rolling, crawling, and sitting up independently.
Natural movement patterns not only help babies achieve motor milestones but also play a vital role in brain development. The more opportunities babies have to move freely, the more they stimulate their brains, creating important neural connections that support everything from physical coordination to cognitive development. When we place them in containers prematurely, we risk interfering with this crucial process.
What the Experts Say
Babies should be allowed to naturally move through developmental stages like tummy time, rolling, and crawling. These stages are key for the neurological and physical growth that supports lifelong health.
Research has shown that the more time babies spend in these devices, the higher their risk of developing delayed motor skills, poor posture, and even long-term developmental concerns. Frequent use of these devices can also contribute to conditions like torticollis (tight neck muscles) and plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), which are exacerbated by improper positioning and limited movement.
Supporting Healthy Development: What You Can Do
The good news is that there are simple, effective ways to support your baby’s development without relying on containers. The best thing we can do is give our babies plenty of time on the floor, where they can move, explore, and develop naturally. Tummy time and interactive play on soft surfaces help your baby build strength, coordination, and balance, while also promoting the healthy development of their nervous system and spinal curves.
If you’re concerned about your baby’s development or how much time they spend in these devices, consider consulting with a pediatric chiropractor or physical therapist. At Foundations Chiropractic, we use advanced assessments such as neurological INSiGHT Scans to detect early signs of nervous system stress and subluxation. By promoting healthy development through natural movement and gentle chiropractic adjustments, we can help ensure your baby is on the right track.
While baby containers may seem like convenient tools, they can have unintended consequences on your baby’s spinal health, nervous system function, and overall development. By encouraging natural movement and providing the right support, you can help your baby reach their milestones in a healthier way.
If you’re looking for more guidance on how to support your baby’s healthy growth, follow us on social media or send us a DM to schedule a consult. Together, we can ensure your little one has the best foundation for lifelong health!