Device for Teaching a Child to Walk

Abstract

A device for allowing a trainer to help a child learn to walk, comprising: a child vest adapted to be worn on the upper torso of the child, having a pair of shoulder portions covering a pair of corresponding shoulder areas of the child, when the child vest is worn; an adjustable trainer belt for securing around the waist of the trainer; and a pair of adjustable shoulder strap assemblies respectively connecting the pair of shoulder portions of the child vest to the adjustable trainer belt. The device allows the trainer, typically, an adult, to support the child without engaging the trainer's hands or the child's hands and allows the trainer to remain in a full upright position to avoid strain on the lower back.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the InventionThe present application relates to a device for helping a child learn to walk.2. Description of the Related ArtWhen children begin to walk, typically they grab onto an adult's fingers—lifting themselves up while holding on tightly. The adult often leans forward and supports the child by allowing the child to balance himself by holding onto each of the adult's hands with one of his own. The adult is thereby able to allow the infant to place weight on its feet while restraining the infant from falling. The child, either facing forward or facing the adult, takes steps, lifting one foot at a time and placing it down on the floor, with the adult providing the necessary support and balance. This age-old method of teaching an infant to walk, however, is not well suited to the adult's physical well being. Because of the small height of the infant as compared to the adult, the adult is bent forward. After a period of time the adult may expe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Compared to other devices, the device and method in accordance with the present application have the following advantages: (1) the trainer (typically an adult) can stand and walk in an upright position without holding the child's hands, leaving the adult's hands free and avoiding strain on the lower back of the trainer; (2) the device also allows the trainer to manipulate an object, such as a light switch, doorknob, and latch, or carry an item in her hands, such as a purse, key, bag, and cell phone, especially when the adult and toddler are outside the home; (3) the device may stabilize the child in an upright position and leave the child's hands free; (4) the device also allows the child to carry a transitional object, e.g., something that the child uses to aid her feeling of security; (4) the device is adjustable when the child grows or a different trainer assists the child to walk.

Problems solved by technology

This age-old method of teaching an infant to walk, however, is not well suited to the adult's physical well being.

After a period of time the adult may experience discomfort from walking in such an awkward position.

However, these devices have significant safety issues.

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