Stroller 101: Pedia Says To Look For These Two Important Features

To some parents, a stroller is probably one of the most helpful baby gears, especially if you are one who likes to take your child outdoors. Although some parents say that this is an item they regret buying, the use differs with each child.

If you are a new parent who is buying a stroller for the first time, you might be overwhelmed with the available options online and in malls. You may also have seen videos or photos of parents who claim that they have found a cheap yet nice stroller for their child which they bought online for less than Php 1,000. What a steal, right?

Who wouldn't be tempted to add these strollers to their carts when branded ones range from at least Php 3,000 up to Php 30,000. "Saglit lang naman gagamitin," some might say. That's why we asked for the advice of Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao, also known as Pedia Doc Joey, pediatrician and member of the Smart Parenting Board of Experts on her thoughts about buying strollers for babies.

What parents should look for in an infant stroller

Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao is firm that there are at least two key features that parents should look for in a stroller, if it is for infants.

"Strollers should have, at the minimum, a five-point harness, which is the current safety standard. That means there should be straps that go over the shoulder, the hips and between the legs. This keeps your child safe and secure while they are seated in the stroller.

"The second key feature to look for is an effective brake system, usually one operated by your feet. It should not be easy to dislodge just by small or unintentional movements."

These are the two most important features you should look for in strollers, but she added some other considerations too, which are as follows:

• The weight and height requirements are suitable for your child;
• The stroller is durable and strong (the frame should feel solid, not flimsy); and
• The stroller is easy to maneuver.

A mom of one, Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao cautions parents from using stroller that are not appropriate for your child’s size and weight.

Stroller safety standards or certifications parents should check for

In the Philippines, Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao says we do not have certifications for child safety products. But since many of our baby products tend to be imported, you can check for a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). This is a document that certifies that a children's product complies with all applicable product safety rules.

Aside from this, the stroller should also have specific labeling information that is permanently marked on the product and its packaging, including its tracking labels. It should usually include the name of the manufacturer, where it was manufactured, its batch or production number, manufacturer contact information, and its model name and number. A product registration card should also be included in the package.

What stroller design should you buy?

While some parents will choose a stroller that appeals to them in terms of color or brand, it's important to choose one that is designed and made with high-quality materials. 

"A stroller has to be able to keep your baby secure, comfortable and safe while they are seated in it, whether while moving or while stationary. And a lot of that safety and security will boil down to the design of the stroller," says Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao.

"It can be very tempting to go with what’s trendy, what’s cheap, what’s viral. But more than anything else, be sure that what you are getting for your baby is safe, durable, reliable, and appropriate for their age and stage." —Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao

"We want a stroller that should ideally be made with a durable, breathable material with some cushion (but not too much that it can pose a suffocation risk, especially for younger infants), as well as a sturdy, supportive back part that is tall enough for them to be able to rest their back and head comfortably," she added.

Stroller features for very young children 

There are many strollers you can find that indicates it can be used by babies age 0-3 months old. However, Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao cautions that parents should be mindful when buying one for their very young children. 

"A stroller should be able to support your baby’s head, if you intend to use a stroller for babies who still don’t have good neck and head control. This would mean that your stroller should be able to recline almost until fully flat (typically over 150 degrees) so that the baby’s chin is not slouching or dipping down to their chest," she said.

"If there’s something that you should never compromise on with your baby, it’s with the safety of the products and things you use, give or purchase for them." —Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao

Another developmental milestone or skill we want to see, she said, is that your baby is able to maintain a balanced, symmetrical position with their head, neck and spine aligned properly. Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao explained, "When you sit them up, they’re not leaning too far off to one side. In the absence of this skill, it’s important that you check that your stroller has good back or postural support and is, again, able to recline."

Another feature that could help keep your baby safe in the stroller is its reversibility. "It’s ideal if your stroller can be reversed, so that your baby is facing you, especially for babies less than 6 months old. This helps you monitor that their position is both safe and comfortable. Rearward facing seats are also safer, especially in cases of accidents and/or impact while using the stroller," she explained. 

Don't keep your baby contained in strollers for prolonged periods, says pedia

Once you've found the suitable stroller for your child, it doesn't end there. Experts say that parents should consider the length of time a baby sits in a stroller, similar to giving them screen time—it should be limited and supervised.

"Any baby 'container' can have a negative impact on their development, specifically if the baby is kept in containers for prolonged periods of time. These include baby carriers, strollers, car seats, high chairs, swings, walkers—basically anything that keeps a baby “contained,” says Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao.

When babies are in containers for prolonged periods, it reduces the amount of time and opportunity for them to practice and hone their motor skills, and also and to kick, turn their head side-to-side, wiggle and move as they are supposed to do in order to develop the needed strength and coordination to learn new skills such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling and walking.

Know when to switch to a bigger stroller

When it comes to your baby's safety, hindi pwede ang pwede na. Even though the stroller is durable but it does no longer fit your child comfortably, experts advise to switch to a new one. Always follow the age, height, and weight recommendations of the stroller you are using, and check it for signs of wear and tear. If some parts need replacing, avoid doing it yourself. Make sure to only get the parts from the manufacturer, and have the repair done by their partner repair shops.

Never compromise your baby's safety 

Finally, Dr. Cuayo-Estanislao says, whatever your budget may be, always look for the main (and minimum) features of a good stroller.

1. The stroller is appropriate for the age, weight and height of your child
2. It has a five-point harness, and
3. It has an effective brake system

It’s also wise to check online for any recalls of or issues with the product you intend to purchase or use.

"There are so many brands, models and styles to choose from these days. It can be very tempting to go with what’s trendy, what’s cheap, what’s viral. But more than anything else, be sure that what you are getting for your baby is safe, durable, reliable, and appropriate for their age and stage. If there’s something that you should never compromise on with your baby, it’s with the safety of the products and things you use, give or purchase for them," she emphasized.

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