David Cummings asked:


Unlike the past, today's parents are fortunate to have a much broader selection of baby strollers available to them. There are multiple styles from which to choose. Strollers are available in a multitude of colors, and with an assortment of features. Whether you have an infant or toddler, one child or several children, there is a stroller made with you in mind. With all of the choices now available, parents shopping for a baby stroller quickly fall into feature comparisons and overlook one, very important factor: their lifestyles.

Today's active lifestyles and hectic schedules demand more variety than ever before, and stroller manufacturers have answered the call with a plethora of styles. From the styles of the turn of the century to the modern athletic trend, there are many types of baby strollers:

? traditional baby prams, similar to the bassinet style baby carriage in which you may have, at one time, felt at home;

? modern style strollers which can accommodate from infants through toddlers;

? umbrella and lightweight strollers for convenient trips to the local store;

? jogging strollers to handle the fast pace of the day's routine run; and

? all-terrain strollers for outdoor recreation and strolling across rough terrains.

Along with each of the many baby stroller types comes a broad selection of features. From wheel size to handlebar height there are many standard features to be considered. There are also may optional, and add-on, features that need to be considered, ranging from storage and snack trays to sunroofs.

Selecting the best baby stroller can be a daunting task. Many parents jump right into the task by gathering data for many of the available baby strollers; by looking at the different styles; and by immediately comparing the long list of features. Some parents even make detailed comparison tables to evaluate the plethora of information. It is certainly necessary to perform adequate research to make the best possible purchase decision; however, most parents do not take into account their lifestyle - overlooking the one critical factor which will significantly influence their long-term satisfaction with their baby stroller.

Before you find yourself getting caught up in the details of stroller features, take the time to think about your lifestyle, your activities, your personal style, and how the stroller needs to fit to your daily activities. Be sure to ask yourself questions such as:

? Will I be using the stroller for a lot of long trips or mostly local outings about town?

? What about taking walks around the neighborhood, at the beach, or in the local park?

? Do I want to continue (or start) physical activities such as running?

? Will we be participating in outdoor recreation activities?

? Which vehicles will be used for transporting the baby stroller?

Once you address these questions for yourself, you will be able to focus in on a true apples-to-apples comparison of baby strollers and their features and will be more able to select the best match for your lifestyle and your satisfaction.



Shea

Nicky Meintjies asked:

Traveling is fun and parents think that they have to give it up when they have a baby of their own. This is not the case. All you need is a nice travel stroller and that is where we come in. Let us help you find that travel stroller for your future family adventures.

There are many things to look for with travel strollers. Many people are looking at travel stroller systems which make it much easier on you, the parent. These are strollers that have an attachable car seat so that you are prepared for it all no matter which way you travel.

So, how do you go about finding one? Here are a few things that you need to check out first.

Folding for Easy Transportation

The first thing that you'll want to check out on a travel stroller is how it folds up. If it doesn't fold up easily then you don't want it. Trust me on this one. Most travel strollers have three ways in which a company will manufacture the stroller so that it does fold. It will either fold down and the wheels then stay on the ground, wheels fold together and the other parts of the stroller fold in towards you, and last, wheels come up in the air and the seat folds down. Out of these methods, the best is the second method. It doesn't get as messy and you don't have to do a bunch of lifting to get it in a trunk.

Focus on Functionality

Next, make sure that you look at all the functions and the snaps. If it's not that easy to snap then you don't want it. Some of them seem to not have enough snaps. Some trick you into thinking that you have snapped them, but they haven't fully locked which is extremely dangerous. One other function to look at is a place to store your valuables. Some of them are where the child can get to them and are out of your sight.

The next thing you look at is the weight. Some strollers are light and convenient that you can do everything one handed. You don't want something that weighs a lot when you travel. That is just extra weight that you don't need. There might be areas that you can't use a stroller and you'll have to carry it. How much are you willing to carry besides the load of the infant? Many parents will say not much.

Different Models

There are a few different models that you can try. The first is the Maclaren Volo which is wonderful to use. Under the basket is a parent gear. It also has a sturdy frame and is very light weight. Another model is Combi Savvy Soho which has a moveable guardrail, machine washable cushion which is always a plus, and some come with a matching bag. Next, is the Zooper Waltz which is compatible with some infant car seats, comes with a rain shield, and a winter boot.

Those are just a few to name that are really light weight. Now, traveling can be fun.

Patricia

Brenda Nadic asked:


You’ve probably purchased a lot of goods online; Books on Amazon, clothes on eBay, who-knows-what on Craiglist – the list goes on! But a baby stroller? Many people feel that for something so naturally dependent on needs, circumstances and physical traits of the person wheeling, the only choice would be to go to the store (like Babies R Us, for instance) and try as many different double baby stroller models out until you find the best one. This double baby stroller strikes you as the only possible choice, and you quickly pay for a boxed one, take it home and start using it. You think you’ve made the right choice, but have you really?

Let’s talk about  a few of the ways that this ”suitable” purchase of a stroller may be looked at in an imperfect light. What I mean is, what you may think is the only possible model for you may not be the best that you could have picked out!

Firstly, do you know the critical double baby stroller features that you should be looking for? Things like shock protection, large storage baskets and storage pockets, and a fitting folding system are often overlooked when you’re shopping in-store. Sure, the kids might have been there, but not being able to test-drive for a time long enough to spot all possible issues can become a nightmare later on. Let’s take an example: you’ve got two toddlers and decide to go for a cheaper double baby stroller, thinking it’s quite a bargain – well, it may be! But even something as simple as the leg-space between the two kids can become a cause of non-stop fighting between your kids!

No one double stroller will tick every single box. You will find points of displeasure later on, regardless of purchase. This is why reading double baby stroller reviews beforehand is a great preparation tool. In fact, purchasing a double baby stroller online is become more and more common for the busy parent or future parent. Amazon, for example, has excellent customer service, and if you’re convinced by the positive and negative double baby stroller reviews in favor of a particular model, purchasing that online will be a good decision. You will still find some fault with your double baby stroller, but this is normal. And, because you will have read the you will have read the negative reviews as well - these things will not come as a surprise.

Also, you may find it hard to shake the salesmen and saleswomen in a store. They will often quickly point out the perceived negative features of a cheap double baby stroller and show you to a deluxe (that means unnecessarily expensive!) model. Even if you mention that you may not have the funs or are reluctant at the moment, they will pressure you into placing “a small deposit before it completely sells out.” Age-old sales tactics! Most people find it hard combating this type of suggestion, as it makes you look financially insecure when rejecting a “measly small deposit” for a double baby stroller.

This deception is the dark side of store shopping, and another reason to consider purchasing a double baby stroller online. Read the genuine double baby stroller reviews and weigh the positive and negative mentions. On most Amazon double baby stroller product listings, you can see measurements such as depth, folded-up size, and more…

Don’t delay and do not fall for deceptive sales tactics – the only way to ensure a correct, weighted, suitable decision that you make is to purchase a double baby stroller on the internet, away from the impulse-decision environment of a shopping mall/store.

Good luck with your stroller, and remember to give your double baby stroller review to the site through which you willmake your purchase, to give others your opinion of the process and how happy you were. Be informative and honest and help each other out!



Arianna

Eric Mindel asked:


No baby stroller is going to be great for everything you'll do in the coming years. So, take a little time thinking about what you most need... many parents discover that one good-quality lightweight stroller for errands and travel, combined with one jogging stroller or full-sized stroller, is a great match for all needs!

FROM WOMB TO WHEELS - AGE PLAYS A ROLE

Birth to six months is the period where your child doesn't have adequate head and neck control for an upright stroller. You'll need to find a stroller onto which you can attach your infant seat, one that has a bassinet, or one rated for newborns.

From 6+ months and older, the stroller world really opens up to you! Unless your baby has special needs, she or he can ride in nearly any stroller out there.

Caution when jogging! Pediatricians warn against too much jarring until your baby has very good head/neck control, usually 8 to 10 months.



WALK MUCH?

If you'll be using a stroller daily for more than just going from your car into a store, you'll love having one that is comfortable and smooth to push. Neighborhood walks and paths are so much more enjoyable with a great rolling stroller.

This is where trying out hands-on pushing is tough to replace with online browsing. If purchasing online, be SURE you read reviews on how a stroller pushes and handles prior to making a purchase (on PeppyParents.com, we've already done all that work for you!).

Generally, larger wheels mean easier pushing. Real rubber tires mean better handling. Suspension (shock absorbers) mean smoother ride. On-board engines mean less work (okay, we made up the one about the engine).

If you don't intend to use a stroller as much more than a car-into-store-back-to-car device, it's not as critical to worry about the ride.



SIZE MATTERS! AND SO DOES WEIGHT.

The lightest good quality stroller available is around 8 pounds -- about the weight of a gallon of water. And, full-sized, full-featured strollers can tip the scales past 30 pounds.

Think about how often you'll be lifting the stroller up stairs, into your car, or into a closet. If it's something you'll be doing daily, try to balance weight with features and performance.

Generally speaking, lighter weight strollers have less features and a less refined ride. They're typically smaller and might have a less comfortable seat for your baby. The lightweights might also lack some convenient adjustments too. The ONLY reason to get an ultra lightweight (i.e., under 10 pounds) stroller is for frequent car errands or travel.

If you find a full-featured, full-size standard stroller that is under 20 pounds, you're doing very well. Most are under 25 pounds.

Expect the very lightest all-terrain stroller to tip the scales at 20 pounds, as well as the very lightest joggers. Most are under 25 pounds.

As far as size, look at the folded size when making your decision. Even if weight is the same, it's much easier to lift, carry, and store a stroller that is less bulky when folded.



AND NOW, THE FEATURE PRESENTATION

All the features are where it really gets more confusing, as no stroller has all of them. Here are some of the more popular ones:

Reverse handle or seat -- this lets you face your baby as you push. Very sweet.

Cupholder -- if not included, don't despair! You can buy universal-fit cupholders.

Storage basket -- you're going to need it for snacks, diapers, wipees, bottles. The bigger, the better.

Sun Canopy -- unless you live deep in a shaded forest, sun protection is very important. Bigger sun canopies provide better protection.

Adjustable handle -- very important for parents who are under 5'3" or taller than 6". A nice feature for all other parents.

Reclining seat -- some strollers are easier to recline than others.

5-point harness -- safety is paramount, and this is the safest type of harness.

Adjustable legrest -- one more way to make it more comfortable for your growing child.

Bumper bar -- (also called grab bar, toy bar) handy for securing toys in front of your baby while you stroll. Toddlers enjoy it too.

Snack tray-- popular on American brands, but not on many others.



Madyson

Daniel Jowssey asked:

Heading overseas on a family vacation can be an exciting experience for children of all ages.

Prior to travel, parents should make sure they are well-equipped to handle the health care needs of children, especially when heading to a developing country.

The airport security officers have to screen everyone, regardless of age (even babies), before they can go through the security checkpoint.

They will not ask you to do anything that will separate you from your child or children.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are specially trained and they understand your concern for your children. They will approach your children gently and treat them with respect. If your child becomes uncomfortable or upset, security officers will consult you about the best way to relieve your child's concern.

NEVER leave babies in an infant carrier while it goes through the X-ray machine.

* All carry-on baggage, including children's bags and items, must go through the X-ray machine. Examples include: diaper bags, blankets, and toys.

* All child-related equipment that will fit through the X-ray machine must go through the X-ray machine. Examples include: strollers, umbrella-strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats, backpacks, and baby slings.

* When you arrive at the checkpoint, collapse or fold your child-related equipment. Secure items that are in the pockets, baskets, or attached to the equipment and place it on the X-ray belt for inspection. Plastic bins are provided to deposit such items.

* If any of your child-related equipment does not fit through the X-ray machine, security officers will visually and physically inspect it.

* Ask a Security Officer for help gathering your bags and child-related equipment, if you need it.

If your child can walk without your assistance, we recommend that you and your child walk through the metal detector separately. If you are carrying your child through the metal detector and the alarm sounds, the Security Officer will have to additionally screen both you and your child.

* Remove babies and children from their strollers or infant carriers so that the Security Officers can screen them individually.

* You may not pass the child to another person behind you or in front of you during this process.

* Do not pass your child to the Security Officer to hold.

* The Security Officer may ask for your help screening your child

The security personnel are just doing their job keeping the airways safe. Please cooperate and it will make your security screening go much smoother.

Rihanna