When it comes to family mealtimes, choosing between a high chair and a booster seat can feel like a big decision. Both options can offer comfortable, engaging mealtimes, but the best option depends on your child’s developmental stage and the space you have available. Below, we’ll break down the benefits of each and help you decide which solution works best for your family. Why Babies Need High Chairs or Booster Seats A consistent mealtime environment plays an important role in your baby’s growth and development. High chairs and booster seats provide a secure space for mealtimes, helping your little one focus on eating while minimizing distractions and mess. Proper posture and positioning are key for swallowing and healthy digestion, and supportive seating helps ensure your baby is upright and stable throughout the meal. Beyond the benefits mentioned above, high chairs and booster seats help establish positive mealtime routines and encourage family interaction at the table. They also support important developmental milestones, like sitting independently, reaching for food, and practicing self-feeding skills. What is a High Chair? A high chair is a freestanding, full-sized seating option for babies beginning to eat solid foods. They can usually be used starting at 6 months old, but some models offer recline angles designed to accommodate newborns. They typically have a tray, adjustable recline, footrest, and harness system. Some high chairs also have features that allow them to convert into booster seats or toddler chairs. Types of High Chairs There are two main types of high chairs to choose from: Standard High Chairs: Traditional high chairs have a larger seat with a snap-on tray. Some models, like the Chicco Polly® High Chair, fold compactly, making them perfect for smaller homes or easy storage. Convertible/Multi-Stage High Chairs: Convertible options, like the Chicco Zest, transition from high chair to booster or toddler seat to grow with your child. What is a Booster Seat? A booster seat is a portable, space-saving feeding seat that attaches securely to a standard dining chair. They can be used by babies who are at least 6 months old. Booster seats raise your little one to table height and help foster independence at mealtimes. Some models have removable food trays, while others don’t have trays at all. Types of Booster Seats There are three types of booster seats to consider: Booster Seats with Trays: Booster seats with trays, like the Chicco Bento 3-in-1 Booster Seat, are great for babies still mastering self-feeding. Table-Height Boosters (No Tray): These boosters, like the Cinch Booster Seat, raise the child to standard table height and are ideal for babies who can eat directly from the table. Hook-On Chairs: These attach directly to a sturdy table to save space and bring your child right to the table’s edge. High Chair vs. Booster: Features, Pros, and Cons Age Features Pros Cons High Chair 6+ months, or when baby can sit up unassisted. Free-standing with tray Built-in harness (3 or 5-point) Recline and footrest options Foldable and convertible options Some provide support for infants Adjustable features Allows baby to sit at table height without taking up a dining chair Can be bulky Takes up floor space Not portable Generally more expensive Booster Seat 6+ months, or when baby can sit up unassisted Can attach to dining chair or table Optional tray, depending on model Compact and portable options Often height-adjustable Space-saving Travel-friendly Typically less expensive Requires a stable, full-size chair with a back May lack recline or tray How to Choose Between a High Chair and Booster Seat Both high chairs and booster seats are practical solutions for snacks and mealtimes, but the best choice depends on your home, lifestyle, and long-term needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when deciding which option is right for you and your little one: Home Setup: Think about your available space. A compact booster seat may be ideal for small spaces or apartments, while a freestanding high chair works well in open floor plans where it can stay set up at the table. Lifestyle and Travel: If your family is frequently on the go, look for portable booster seats or hook-on models that make it easy to maintain mealtime routines away from home. Longevity and Adaptability: Multi-stage high chairs that convert into booster seats or toddler chairs provide long-term value by growing with your child, eliminating the need to purchase separate seating solutions as your baby grows. Safety Features: No matter which option you choose, prioritize seats with a secure harness system and ensure the product meets current ASTM and Baby Safety Alliance standards for feeding products. When to Stop Using a High Chair Most children transition out of their high chair between 18 and 24 months, though this can vary based on your child’s readiness and the type of chair you’re using. Some high chairs are designed to grow with your child and can convert into booster seats or toddler chairs. Your child may be ready to stop using a high chair if they begin resisting the high chair or trying to climb out on their own. Before switching to a different seating option, like a booster seat or dining chair, make sure your baby meets the new seat’s age and weight requirements. High Chair and Booster Seat Safety Whether you choose a high chair or booster seat, safety comes first. Proper use of these products helps keep your little one secure and supports healthy mealtime habits. High Chair Safety Tips Always use the built-in harness system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not rely on the tray alone to secure your child in the high chair. Never leave your child unattended in the high chair. Do not allow your child to stand in the chair. Ensure the high chair is stable and placed on a flat, even surface. If the chair has wheels, make sure they are locked during use. Keep the chair away from counters, walls, or furniture that a child could push against. Booster Seat Safety Tips Confirm the booster is securely strapped to the dining chair as directed. Always use the provided harness or straps. Place boosters only on stable, non-folding adult chairs. Supervise your child at all times while seated. Avoid using booster seats on stools, bar-height chairs, or soft surfaces. Find the Right High Chair or Booster Seat With Chicco Both high chairs and booster seats are designed to support your baby’s transition to solids starting around 6 months of age. The right choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and budget. Want more parenting tips and advice? Visit the Chicco Baby Talk Blog! High Chair vs. Booster Seat FAQs Which is better: a high chair or a booster seat? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your child’s developmental stage and your home setup. High chairs are often preferred in the early feeding months for their supportive design and dedicated feeding space. Booster seats are a great option as your child grows more independent and can sit comfortably at the table. They are also a better option for travel because they are small and lightweight. Consider your family’s needs, how long you plan to use the seat, and features like convenience, harness systems, and adaptability when making your choice. What age do you switch from high chair to booster? Many children transition from a high chair to a booster seat between 18 and 24 months, though the timing depends more on your child's readiness rather than age alone. While both high chairs and booster seats can generally be used by children as young as 6 months, there are some considerations to keep in mind. High chairs tend to offer more support for younger babies who are still building core strength, while booster seats can be used once a child can sit up unsupported for the duration of the meal. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s weight and age guidelines to determine when it’s time to make the switch.