Sitting high and dry

We just got our son a highchair - YAY! He is absolutely loving it ... so we are happy. The buying decision was actually quite lengthy - because what I found is that ultimately the high chair I REALLY wanted doesn't exist.

So after a few Internet searches and looking round restaurants and shops we finally bought the Max & Moritz wooden highchair. It's simple, practical and sturdy. It comes in a flat pack and assembling it is real easy. BUT ... it doesn't have a cushion that goes all the way to the seat rest or around the side. This is a real bummer as especially for 6-month olds there is a lot of space to wobble about. If anyone is in the cushion making industry - here's a real opportunity for you. I'd be the first customer for a cushion a la "Stokke Tripp Trapp" high chairs that fits the Max & Moritz chair.

Other models we've reviewed include the Stokke Tripp Trapp and the Svan Highchair. Apart from the price (both are considerably more expensive than the Max & Moritz) there are other problems I found. Like, the Tripp Trapp doesn't have a tray so you really have to have a table near by at the right height. The Svan is super stylish and gets great reviews but I felt that the tray was a bit wobbly.

Safety is another big thing - apparently there is an ongoing debate whether a single, 3-point or 5-point harness is best. The single harness chairs obviously don't hold the baby in place much but in case of disaster it is very easy to get the baby out quickly. That's obviously the key issue with 3 or 5 points harnesses ... who knows. We went with a single one (because it came with the chair anyway).

All in all - a rewarding experience for the baby but there is quite a lot to consier. Actually I'm realing now that can be said for just about anything you buy for kids. Fair enough - I guess it's also good to think before you buy!

-Stef