Choosing Pushchairs For Your Baby

A pushchair, buggy or stroller is a form of transport for infants and toddlers. Infants must be able to lie flat, which is the reason prams come with the bassinet or carry cot and some even have a frame that you can fix the cot to.

When your baby is able to sit up and has a good head-control when sitting up, you can put them in a stroller with a seat facing away from or towards you. Some have useful features, such as the swivel wheels and enclosed carrycots, which can be used in 3 in 1 systems.

Rear-facing

There are many choices to pick from when it comes to choosing a pushchair for a new baby. This includes prams, buggies, pushchairs, and strollers. Although the terms are similar, there are significant differences. A pram is designed to lie flat, while a pushchair allows a seated position. Some babies can be seated in both, whereas others will require a carrycot to help make their necks stronger and allow them to sit comfortably.

Most experts agree it is recommended to use a baby pushchair with the parent facing forward for babies until a few months old. Babies love looking at their parents' faces and love the visual connection can be created. This eye contact is essential to their emotional development as they learn to process the information around them. They also begin to develop language skills as they watch the way their parents interact with them.

When babies can see their parents, they feel more secure and confident. They know that they can count on their parents to assist them navigate and safeguard them. This early trust can help a child gain confidence and improve their well-being as they become toddlers and begin to explore the world.

A parent-facing pushchair allows you to check on your baby while they are in their seat. It is simple to make sure that they're comfortable and content, and also that their hat hasn't fallen over their eyes or the wind isn't blowing in their face. Babies who can see their parents are more likely to sleep because they feel at ease by their familiar faces.

There are plenty of options when you wish to keep your child in a pushchair that is facing the parent for as long as you can. Some pushchairs can be switched between forward-facing and parent-facing, while others have an extendable footmuff that can keep out cold air or a rain cover to protect your baby from the elements. The Eezy S Twist+2 is a fantastic example of a versatile pushchair that can switch from a parent-facing to a forward facing Pushchair-facing seat unit with the flick of a lever. It can be outfitted with a Cocoon S Car Seat, Cot S Carrycot or the carrycot for a four-in-one travel system.

Forward-facing

A pushchair that is forward-facing allows babies to explore their surroundings and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds around them. The baby can also see his parents, which is essential for social development. About six months old, based on their developmental milestones and their age generally, babies are ready to transition from a newborn carrycot or pram to a pushchair oriented forward. This is when they have acquired enough head and neck control to be secure in forward-facing positions.

Research suggests that when babies sit with their parents from the front of a pushchair, they are more likely to engage in conversation and have a lower heart rate which suggests that they are less stressed. They also pay more attention in what's happening in the surrounding area and with their parents. This helps stimulate their minds and help develop their communication skills. Parents are more likely to talk to their babies when they are in eye contact with them. This is calming and reassuring for them.

It is possible to use a pushchair with a seat facing the front from the time of birth. This allows you to go for longer walks. You can take your child shopping or take them to other activities requiring walking. Additionally, a stroller or pushchair will give your baby the opportunity to experience things that their older siblings are doing, which is great to build confidence and self-esteem.

You should look for a pushchair that has many accessories, including a blanket for the pram, a footmuff and seat liner. A hood and a parasol are essential to shield your baby from the sun, particularly in hot weather. Find a parasol that is SPF- or UV 50+ rating, and make sure it's made to fit in your pushchair and is easy to attach. Some brands offer a variety of accessories. Some may come in a bundle along with the pushchair while others can be purchased separately.

Many pushchairs are convertible to doubles when you add an additional seat unit or carrycot. This is particularly useful for families expecting a second child soon after the first. Some of these models come with everything you need to make the switch and some come with an adapter kit that can be purchased separately.

All-terrain

If you live on the country side, love a walk in the woods or go hiking frequently then you'll require a pushchair designed for rough roads and rutted terrain. All-terrain strollers are built to take on any terrain. They are equipped with features such as suspension that cushion bumpy rides, so your child won't get shaken up. The seat is designed to distribute the force of the bumpy terrain to the head and neck of your child.

Most all-terrain strollers are three-wheelers, with the front wheel that can be swiveled and locked in place to give maximum maneuverability. This is vital when you're on rough surfaces. They also have larger tires than your typical pushchair, which means they can handle more rough terrain and have more comfort for your child.

Another thing to think about when looking for an all-terrain pushchair is if the wheels are filled with foam or air. Air-filled tyres can create an easier ride on rough terrain however, they also puncture more easily if you hit something sharp. Foam-filled tyres last longer and less likely to puncture, which is why this is a better option for an all-terrain pushchair.

Some strollers that are all-terrain can be converted from single to double mode, for a growing family. Some can be used as travel systems using car seat adaptors. They are perfect for parents who are new. Some models, like the Out 'n' About Nipper are suitable for infants due to their slender seats, and the fact that you can carry a cot with them.

The Nipper is equipped with a range of accessories for pushchairs including a footmuff as well as raincover. It has a single-hand fold and is freestanding when folded, so it's easy to store. It also has the 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel, and foam-filled never-flat tyres, which mean you don't have to worry about punctured on your walks.

Weight

Selecting the right pushchair is a crucial choice that will affect the manner you travel with your baby. The best pushchair for newborn model will allow your child to grow and develop in a safe and comfortable manner, while it will allow you to take part in all the family adventures that are yet to be had. It's an investment of a large amount, so make sure that you choose the one that will suit your lifestyle and budget.

Understanding the difference between a buggy, a travel system, and a single pushchair is the first step. This guide will help parents comprehend the terminology and determine what is right for their new baby.

A pram, as its name suggests, is designed for newborns and babies up to six months old. It allows the baby's back to grow properly, allowing them to sleep flat. Some models have bassinets that can be used during the beginning of the year to provide your baby with a safe, secure environment.

However, you should be aware that not all pushchairs that claim they can lie flat actually can do this. Be wary of manufacturers' claims that a pushchair can recline flat. Always check the fine print to determine what this actually means. Some pushchairs can only recline a little, which is still better than the full-reclining seat.

Once your baby is old enough to sit up unaided, it's the time to move them into a pushchair seat. This typically happens between three to four months. However, some babies will start sitting up earlier. It's best to buy an infant pushchair that can be converted from a carrycot to a seat. This will give you flexibility and keep your baby safe until they're ready for the next stage.

Parents like a lightweight pushchair that has a single pedal to brake, especially for those who want to chat or carry shopping bags in their hands. Jessica, our MFM home tester, gave this pushchair an A+, stating that "it handles superbly, with a smooth ride and the one-handed fold is a joy". The lightweight model comes with TruRide tyres that are durable puncture-resistant and offer excellent performance.