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Buying For Baby, Dad-to-be?
Fasten Your Seatbelt!
By Julia Rosien
A lightweight stroller weighs less than 15 pounds and won't stand up to challenges like an all-terrain stroller. A jogging stroller should only be used after your baby reaches 6 months old because of her lack of muscle control. Whichever stroller you decide on, it probably won't be your last. Many families buy numerous strollers throughout the childbearing years to reflect changing family dynamics.
Look for a stroller with buckles that wrap around the waist and go through the legs -- a three point harness system. Make sure it has good wheel brakes and a locking mechanism to ensure it doesn't collapse by mistake. Test the handle height to see if it's comfortable for you and check whether any or all wheels swivel or remain front facing. Swivel wheels make it easier to maneuver indoors but get stuck on rocks or icy ground. Does it have an easily adjustable seat and canopy for napping on the go? Does it have a storage basket and washable fabric on the seat? Expect to spend $30 to $800 with the average price between $100 to $250.
"We have four children and we've gone through five strollers: two lightweight, one double, one regular and one all terrain," says Steve Miller of Ontario. "The best was the all-terrain. It weathered snow, rain, camping and three older siblings pushing it around."
Many parents enjoy having their baby close with hands free to vacuum, push an older child on a swing or grocery shop. Two options for carrying an infant hands-free are slings and front-pack carriers.
Want to see more?
- Get tips on surviving baby's first year financially in Having the Baby Without Breaking the Bank
- Check out the iParenting Recalls section to make sure your baby equipment has not been recalled.
- Read Clip This: How and Why to Use a Locking Clip for more car seat safety information.
- Read Read Carseat Safety Tips for more car seat safety information.
- Learn about stroller safety
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