3 Types of Strollers by Age
Strollers differ not only in their colors and design but in their use as well. If you’re a new parent, you might think any stroller will do for your baby. But experience will tell you there’s an appropriate stroller by age.
1 – Newborn – Six Months (0 – 6 Months)
Newborn babies need support. Their head needs to be supported all the time. They need a stroller enabling them to fully recline so their head won’t fall to the side. Jogging and umbrella strollers are not good choices for newborns.
You should also keep your baby safe from too many bumps. Find a stroller that’s comfortable and safe. Ideally, a well-padded stroller with big wheels can do the trick.
Another thing to consider with newborn babies is their sleep. They sleep most of the time.
If you often go out with a car, you’ll need a stroller with a travel system. This allows you to transfer your baby from the car to the stroller without removing them from the car seat.
2 – Six to Twelve Months (6 – 12 Months)
At this stage, your baby can now sit on their own. Adjustable strollers that allow them to sit and recline at different positions are ideal.
They’d love to be pushed around while they sit and observe everything around them. But they’ll also need a stroller where they can sleep comfortably.
To make sure they’re safe, the seat must be equipped with a five-point harness. The lock should be easy to unfasten for the parents – but not for the kids.
If you exercise regularly and want to make sure you can still exercise while taking care of your little one, consider a jogging stroller.
One added feature you’ll want is a seat that can face front or back. Or a handlebar you can move to the front or to the back.
Your baby will want to see everything around them but they’ll feel more secure if they can see you as you go. And it’s the same for parents. You’ll feel more at peace if you can see what your baby is doing while you’re pushing them.
Going out can be made easier with umbrella strollers. Now that your baby can sit up on its own, you don’t have to always use big, bulky strollers.
3 – Toddlers (18 – 24 Months)
Babies this age are very active. They’ll be on and off the stroller too many times.
Your ideal stroller is something that’s easy to fold and light to carry. It should also be easy to maneuver with one free hand as your other hand holds your baby. Umbrella strollers fit this description.
It should also be ‘safe’ in terms of a five-point harness, buckle, brakes, and lock.
Safety tip: Inspect the stroller for potential pinch points where they can hurt their fingers.
Essential Features for All Stages
No matter what age your baby is, you’ll want to have thee in your stroller:
- Adjustable handlebar: especially when there’s more than one caregiver
- A big canopy: to protect your baby from the sun
- Storage basket: under the seat for all the stuff you need to carry
Until What Age Can My Baby Ride a Stroller?
Some say 3; others say 4. But maybe, it shouldn’t be based on your baby’s age. Check the weight limit on the stroller. It can vary depending on the stroller type or the manufacturer.
No matter what age your baby is, for as long as their weight is still within the weight limit, they can still use the stroller.