Should I use a bumbo for my baby is a common question we get asked here at Children’s Sunshine Chiropractic.
It is up to each each parent to understand the advantages and disadvantages and for them make an imformed decision whether to use a bumbo or not.

Advantages of using a bumbo seat:

. A bumbo can keep a baby entertained for a short while while giving parents time to themselves, to catch up on house hold chores such as cleaning or folding washing.

. A bumbo can keep a baby upright, taking pressure off the skull, which may help babies with flat head syndrome.

Disadvantages of using a bumbo seat:

. A bumbo seat limits babies them from actively using their muscles and sensory system they need for pelvic control, by locking in the pelvis.

. A bumbo seat causes the baby’s posture to slump by tilting the pelvis back and bringing their head forward, loading the spine with extra pressure. The slumped posture on a developing spine may cause tightening of neck and back muscle supporting the spine.

. A bumbo seat is shallow and babies can roll out. They should not be trusted on an elevated surface such a kitchen bench.

Summary: It is the authors believe a bumbo seat has more disadvantages than advantages. To be able to sit unsupported a baby needs head, neck and trunk control, which is usually developing around 4 months of age. Learning to sit activates lots of communication between the muscles and the brain (proprioceptors). This does not occur to the same degree by having a baby locked into a seat unable to actively use their muscles and sensory system for pelvic and trunk control.
If parents decide to use a bumbo it is recommended to use only in short time frames. Babies are encouraged to spend as much time as possible when awake on their tummy, to help their muscles and sensory system to develop. Alternatively, sitting a baby upright and supporting them by using a box, washing basket or with your hands is more beneficial for their muscle and sensory system than using a bumbo