When Can Babies Sit in Stroller

There are lots of questions that swirl around your head when you are a new parent. Let’s face it, all you want to do is your best when it comes to your little one. Take it from me. I’m a mum to two young children, so I have the experience and I’ve been there. Thinking everything through to make sure you are making the most informed decisions for your baby. One of the questions that you may need to answer is ‘When can babies sit in stroller’. So I thought I’d put together a useful post which can help you decide if your baby is ready to make the switch,

When Can Babies Sit in Stroller?

Determining when babies can sit in a stroller involves considering several things, such as the type of stroller, the baby’s age, and their developmental milestones, but generally speaking, 6 months is considered to be the age that your baby can transition from a lay flat carrycot pram to a stroller. But let’s take a closer look at these factors to help you decide if it’s the right time for your baby to use a stroller, ensuring their safety, comfort, and proper development.

Developmental Stages and Tummy Time

Before introducing your baby to a stroller, it’s crucial to pay attention to their developmental stages. Typically, infants start building neck and upper body strength through tummy time, which involves placing them on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. Tummy time helps develop the muscles necessary for good head control, an important prerequisite for stroller use.

Newborns usually lack the neck control required for sitting upright, and their heads are not yet strong enough to be in an unsupported, seated position. To ensure your baby is ready for a stroller, begin introducing tummy time from the early weeks. When they can hold their own head up with ease during tummy time, it’s a positive sign that they are developing the necessary muscles for sitting.

The Right Age for Stroller Use

The appropriate age for stroller use varies depending on the type of stroller and your baby’s individual development. Manufacturers often provide guidelines on when their strollers are suitable for use, so it’s essential to consult the product’s manual for specific recommendations. In general, most strollers are designed for babies around 6 months of age or when they can sit up unassisted.

For younger babies who haven’t reached this milestone, travel systems that include an infant car seat and a stroller frame are a popular option. Infant car seats are designed to be rear-facing and provide excellent support for newborns. These can be attached to a stroller frame, allowing you to transport your baby easily without disturbing their sleep.

Many travel systems also offer a carry-cot option. This is the best option for young babies as it will allow them to lay flat during their time being transported on the pram wheels. It’s much better for your baby to be lying flat than in a car seat for extended periods, so use your carry cot on your pram wheels where ever possible until your baby is ready to sit up in a stroller.

Types of Strollers and Their Suitability

Different types of strollers offer different features, and the choice often depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Here are some common stroller types and when they are suitable for use:

Bassinet or Carry Cot Strollers

These strollers come with a bassinet or carrycot attachment, providing a lie-flat position for newborns. This type of stroller is suitable from birth until your baby has good head control, usually around 6 months.

Convertible Strollers

These versatile strollers can adapt to your child’s changing needs. With an adjustable seat that reclines fully, convertible strollers are suitable for infants who can lie flat and older babies who can sit up.

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Umbrella Strollers

Known for their lightweight and compact design, umbrella strollers are suitable for older babies who have good head control and can sit comfortably in a more upright position. These are ideal for space saving and easy transportation as they fold up quite small and will fit into compact car boots or small spaces within the home.

Front-Facing and Face-Forward Strollers

These strollers are designed for older infants with good head control, usually around 6 months or older. Front-facing strollers allow your baby to explore the world, while face-forward strollers enable them to interact with their surroundings.

Travel Systems

Often travel systems or stroller sets will come with adapters that can be used with a matching car seat. These are ideal if you are just popping into the shops and don’t want to wake your sleeping baby. You can simply pop your car seat on the wheels and you can wheel your baby where you need them to go. Bear in mind that newborn babies shouldn’t be in car seats for any longer than half an hour at a time. So a bassinet or carry cot would be better if you are going to use your stroller for a long time.

Choosing the right stroller for your baby involves considering their age, developmental stage, and the type of stroller that aligns with your lifestyle.

Stroller Safety Tips – When Can Babies Sit in Stroller?

Ensuring your baby’s safety is the most important aspect of stroller use. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Always be aware of the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific stroller you own. This includes age recommendations, weight limits, and proper usage instructions.

Use a 5-point Harness

Strollers equipped with a 5-point harness provide optimal security by securing your baby at the shoulders, hips, and between the legs. This prevents them from sliding or standing up in the stroller.

Check for Safety Features

Verify that your stroller has essential safety features, such as parking brakes, a sturdy frame, and a flat surface for your baby to sit or lie on comfortably.

Ensure Good Head Control

Before transitioning to a front-facing stroller, make sure your baby has good head control. This is crucial to prevent any strain on their neck and spine. Also, babies shouldn’t sleep with their heads pressed against their chests. This can cause them to suffocate.

Keep the Stroller on a Flat Surface

Always park your stroller on a level surface, ensuring stability. Avoid placing it on uneven terrain or inclines to prevent the stroller from tipping over.

Secure Your Baby in a Reclined Position for Young Infants

If your stroller allows, use a fully reclining seat for younger babies who cannot sit up unassisted. This provides proper support for their developing spine.

Adjustable Handlebars

If your stroller has adjustable handlebars, set them at a height comfortable for you. This ensures that you have proper control and reduces strain on your back. In my experience, this is so important as you will find that you will use your stroller a lot and if you are tall like me, having an appropriately set up stroller will be a godsend.

Be Mindful of Age Limits

Strollers often come with age limits for specific features. For example, front-facing strollers may have a recommended minimum age for forward-facing use. Always be aware of these and stick to these age limits for your baby’s safety.

Stroller Use in Different Settings

The right time for stroller use also depends on the setting in which you plan to use it. Here are some considerations for various scenarios:

Everyday Use

When heading out for a stroll in the neighbourhood or running errands, a regular stroller seat is suitable for babies with good head control. Ensure your baby is securely strapped in for a comfortable and safe ride.

Public Transportation

If you frequently use public transportation, consider a lightweight and easily foldable stroller for convenience. Ensure that the stroller is compact enough to navigate through crowded spaces and onto buses or trains.

Travelling

For travel, especially by car, a travel system with an infant car seat is a convenient option. This allows you to seamlessly transition your baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing their sleep.

Shopping Trips

A stroller with a spacious storage basket is ideal for trips to the local shop or supermarket. This allows you to carry essential items like a changing bag and groceries while keeping your baby comfortable. Trust me, you’ll find it impossible to carry a basket or push a trolley whilst also pushing a pushchair.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an active family that enjoys outdoor activities, look for a stroller with sturdy wheels and good suspension for a smooth ride. Ensure your baby is securely strapped in and protected from the elements. You can buy strollers which are specifically designed to be off-road or runner-style pushchairs. They have more rugged wheels and tend to be easier to push. Often they only have three wheels – one large one at the front and two at the back. Take a look if you’ve never seen one.

Determining when babies can sit in a stroller involves a careful consideration of their developmental stages, the type of stroller you own, and the manufacturer’s guidelines. Whether you opt for a bassinet stroller, a convertible stroller, or a travel system with a baby car seat, prioritising your baby’s safety and comfort is paramount. By following the recommended age guidelines, using appropriate safety features, and paying attention to your baby’s developmental milestones, you can provide a secure stroller experience. Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, so be patient and allow your little one to explore the world from the comfort of their stroller at the right time and in the right way.