Guide To Strollers: What To Get When
A baby's best riding depends largely on her age. Here's a checklist of the types and functions of strollers you'll need (and want) as your child grows.
Let's be honest: Strollers are a pricey item, but unlike all those cute onesies you score in your baby's bath, a good stroller actually lasts for more than a few months. So how do you make sure that the strollers you buy (or two, but not four or five) have everything you need for every age group? Read on.
0 to 6 months
What do you need?
At this point, your primary concern is to keep your baby stable, supportive, and comfortable. Look for a sturdy, structured stroller with a good suspension system that absorbs bounce and prevents bumping. Another must-have feature: Comfortable seats that fully recline so your newborn can lie flat.
What do you want
With a travel system or stroller that accommodates a baby car seat, you don't have to wake your baby every time you put him or her in the car. Some mothers opt for cheaper stroller frames at this age, insert them into car seats, and then buy pricier full-size strollers when the baby can sit on its own.
What to consider
If you're a city mom, or just don't drive much, rather than a travel system, opt for a stroller with a cradle attachment. This way, you can drop your little thing without any attachments, adapters, or buttons that you might have experienced in the early days of your sleep-deprived new mom. The cradle can also double as a mini crib.
6 to 12 months
What do you need?
Now that a baby can stand upright, the seat in a stroller is more important than ever. It should be roomy, adequately supported and cushioned, adjustable, and offer multiple sloping positions to keep up with your growing child. Also, make sure it comes with a five-point harness to make sure your child is comfortable and safe when walking.
What do you want
You have got rid of your mother's worries and feel more confident taking your child out for a walk. Walking is chatting with him (read: Bonds!). Especially if he can see your face. An often-overlooked feature will now come in handy: seats that can sit forward or backward.
What to consider
Now is the time to start thinking about buying a professional stroller to complement your original stroller - once the baby has good head and neck control, of course. To figure out which type is best for you, consider your lifestyle: Are you an avid runner who yearns to exercise with a baby? Look for a lightweight stroller that is light enough to handle both sidewalks and trails.
18 to 24 months
What do you need?
Your child is becoming increasingly independent and curious and wants to engage with the world around her. As your child constantly jumps out of the buggy, you are likely to be carrying it, so look for a model that is light and easy to fold up. (If you must choose one, choose a rope that can be folded.) At this age, it should still have a five-point harness to keep your wobbly browser safe. Also, check for potential pinches between the awning opening and closing: This is a good place for your child to let go while walking, and you don't want your child to get hurt.
What do you want
Look for a set of wheels that are easy to operate. When your child is walking beside you holding your hand, you need to use the other hand to steer the stroller. Every stroller is not easy to do.
What to consider
In the days when your child wants to be a big kid and walk instead of moving around, a riding board can be a godsend. Because of the reality, she's quick to complain about being tired after a few steps. In this case, she can board. Avoiding crisis.
Stroller features for all ages
Whether a baby is 2 days old or 2 years old, there are some stroller features that will always come in handy. When shopping, please pay attention to the following important points:
• prevent bask in. In a pinch, you can cover your newborn with a blanket. But as she gets older and more active, you'll be glad to have a stroller with a large canopy and UV protection.
• Storage space. How much space you need depends on preference and lifestyle. Are you the type of mom who likes to take anything other than the kitchen sink with you when you leave the house, or do you pack light? Do you go shopping on foot or by car? Do you want to keep the diaper bag or carry it with you?
• Adjustable handlebars. Suppose you are 5'4 "and your partner is 6'2". Can you all walk your little ones in comfort? Consider who is pushing, and then make sure you can move the handlebars to suit those people's height and length of legs.
