2 yr old and newborn - double stroller or no - New York City Parents | Forums | What to Expect (2024)

FAQs

Do you need a double stroller for a 2 year old and newborn? ›

A single-seat stroller could work just fine for your family's needs. However, when juggling two small children or a toddler and an infant, a double stroller can be very useful. Both of your kids will have a comfy and safe place to sit while you're out—without requiring you to hold their hands or carry them.

“The main reason I recommend limiting stroller use once kids are past the toddler stage is because it's important for kids to get in the habit of walking, which is great exercise for their muscles, bones and heart,” says Trachtenberg, who advises ditching the stroller between ages 3 and 4.

Double strollers can accommodate two children from birth to age five. There are three types of double strollers: side-by-side, tandem, and convertible.

When to Stop Using a Stroller. In general, children shouldn't require a stroller after the age of three. Although strollers are convenient, it's on you as a parent to promote an active lifestyle once your child starts walking independently.

Using a single pushchair for your toddler and sling or baby carrier for a newborn can be a good option . Plus, some toddlers might not want to ride on buggy boards, so using a sling for your newborn can be an alternative.

If you're going to and fro to daycare by car Monday to Friday you really might not need a double stroller. You could get by with other options like shoulders for long days out, wearing the smaller child in a carrier or having the older child on some kind of push or ride on vehicle/toy like a kick scooter.

Doctors who specialize in children's health and experts who study how children grow generally think that kids around the age of 3 should start using a stroller less. At this age, most toddlers can walk all by themselves and can follow simple instructions.

Distract, distract, distract

Break out a special book or toy that is just for when they are buckled in and co-operating (it should be something that can be attached to the stroller so it doesn't get tossed out). Tell stories, or play a game like I Spy.

While there is no set age to make this transition (as EVERY baby is different), the general advice is: once they are able to sit up unassisted, they will be able to sit in the stroller without their car seat. This happens around 6 months of age (sometimes sooner, sometimes later).

“I recommend 1-2 strollers to parents depending on their activity level and where they live,” says Brandi Jordan, a doula of over 20 years and who's worked with high profile clients like Mandy Moore.

What is the minimum age for Bob double stroller? ›

AGE RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that your child be a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks old before riding in the stroller. Young babies incapable of holding their head up must be provided additional head and neck support to ride safely. For jogging and off road use, children should be at least 6 to 8 months old.

If you have a newborn, it's preferred that they fall asleep in a bassinet style stroller that allows them to lay flat. But even in a traditional style stroller, an older baby will be safe if they end up taking a quick snooze.

At around the age of 2, most children are able to walk short distances on their own. By the time they reach 3 or 4 years old, they can usually walk much longer distances without getting tired. This is a good time to start thinking about transitioning away from the stroller, as they may not need it as much anymore.

Some 3+ year olds still need or want a stroller seat, making a double stroller necessary if you also have a younger sibling. Other 3+ year olds are done with strollers and a double stroller would be a waste.

But experts say once a child is able to walk proficiently, typically between the ages of 2 and 3, overusing a stroller can interfere with physical development.

“I recommend 1-2 strollers to parents depending on their activity level and where they live,” says Brandi Jordan, a doula of over 20 years and who's worked with high profile clients like Mandy Moore.

Convertible: All convertible strollers are tandems that switch between single and double configurations. Use it with one child as a single stroller, then transform it into a two-seater when needed. Once the older child maxes out the age and/or weight limit, you can turn it back into a single stroller.

Your kids' ages and sizes also play a part in your decision. If your little ones are 2-4 years apart, a side-by-side or double-wide stroller is ideal. If your children have larger age differences, pick a double stroller that has a higher weight limit (more than 25kg) so that you can stretch its lifespan.