When Can Babies Sit In A Stroller?

The best age for babies to sit in a stroller will vary from one child to another. But as a rule of thumb, your child should be able to support the weight of their head before you place them in a stroller.

It usually happens at around four months of age, although some babies may be ready sooner. If your baby can hold up their head but still struggles to do it for long periods of time, you may want to wait until they or hold it up steadily before placing them in the stroller.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should not put your baby to sleep in a stroller at the age of under four months as it puts them at risk of suffocation. 

Since these children cannot hold themselves up, they might slip out of the stroller and get hurt. Here are some other things you need to know about putting your baby in a stroller.

How Do Strollers Help?

Strollers can be a huge help for parents who need to take their babies out. They can provide your baby with a safe, comfortable place to rest while you are shopping, running errands, or simply taking a walk in the park.

It also gives you more control of your baby’s movements and helps them develop their motor skills as they learn to hold themselves up. If you have more than one child, it is even more beneficial to have a stroller since it can provide space for multiple babies and toddlers.

You can also keep your groceries, diaper bags, and other items in the storage basket attached to most strollers.

What to Consider When Buying a Stroller?

If your child is old enough to sit in a stroller, you should buy a safe and comfortable one. Here are some critical considerations.

Steering Mechanism

The steering mechanism is the first thing you should consider when buying a stroller. You must ensure that the stroller you choose has an easy-to-use, sturdy steering mechanism. The wheel should be able to turn without any jerks and should be easy to maneuver.

Safety Harness

A five-point harness is recommended for all strollers. The harness ensures that your baby stays secure in the seat and does not slip out of it. It is also ideal for keeping your baby in a seated position to prevent them from slouching.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the stroller are also essential factors to consider. If you plan to use it frequently, look for a lightweight model that is easy to fold and store.

For larger babies, you may want to look for a model with a higher weight capacity. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable in the stroller and will not outgrow it too quickly.

Locking System and Brakes

The last thing you want is for your baby to fall out of the stroller. So look for a model with an effective locking system. The brakes should also be easy to use and should lock in place securely.

Attachments

Some strollers come with accessories like cup holders, storage compartments, and rain covers. These features can make your life easier when you are out and about with your baby.

Compliance

It’s essential to check that the stroller complies with safety regulations. The manufacturer should provide information on this in the product manual or website.

Safety Measures for Using a Stroller

Once your child is ready to sit in a stroller, you’ll have to be very careful with them. Here are some safety measures to follow:

• Securely fasten the harness and make sure it fits snugly around your baby’s chest.
• Ensure your baby is in an upright position and that their head is not slumped forward.
• Never leave your baby unattended in the stroller; always keep them in your sight.
• Ensure that the locking mechanism is engaged before you start to push the stroller.
• Be aware of any hazardous objects or surfaces around you that may tip over the stroller.
• Check that the brakes are locked in place before you stop.
• Make sure that your baby’s feet are not caught in the spokes of the wheels.

If you use the stroller’s trunk space to store items, don’t overload it. Otherwise, you may lose control of the stroller.

When Is Your Baby Too Old to Sit In a Stroller?

So, your baby gets in a stroller when they’re three to four months old, but when is it time for them to move on? When should you stop putting your baby in a stroller and holding their hand as they walk?

Your baby can sit in a stroller until they start walking on their own and can follow directions. You might be tempted to keep them in the stroller longer, but they need to be able to move around and explore their environment.

If babies don’t get enough physical activity, their development can be affected, and they may become overweight. Or, if they don’t develop their motor skills, they may struggle later on. That’s why walking is extremely important for children.

Once your baby is around four years, they’re probably ready to move on from the stroller. That said, it’s still up to you as a parent and depends on each individual child.

If your child suffers from a disability, you may need to use a stroller for longer. Your child’s medical professional can help you decide the best course of action.

Final Words

From choosing the right stroller to teaching your baby how to use it safely, there’s a lot to learn about using a stroller. Ideally, you can put your child in a stroller when they start supporting their head and can sit up on their own.

When buying a stroller, look for one that is lightweight, easy to use, and has safety features such as a locking system and brakes. You should also check that the stroller complies with safety regulations.

Finally, your baby can stay in a stroller until they start walking independently and can follow directions.

Want a beautiful gift for your kids? CLICK HERE