A stroller is very useful for day-to-day parenting needs such as travel, enabling naps outdoors, relieving aching arms and generally moving faster with your baby.
It can be a great relief if your baby takes to his stroller, but what if your baby hates the stroller?
What to do if your baby hates the stroller
It is fairly common for babies or toddlers to reject the stroller because developmentally, they might not have the emotional maturity to be independent in it.
When baby hates the stroller, here are a few things you can try, to settle him in.
Check for physical comfort
When your baby won’t sit in the stroller, the first and most important thing to do is to check for physical comfort, especially if your baby is still very young and unable to verbalise any discomfort.
Go over areas of the stroller with your palms to check for any parts that could hurt your baby or make him physically uncomfortable before placing him in. Also, always check that the seat belt is not pinching him or too tight anywhere.
An infant will require a supportive body pillow to support him. Taking these precautions will avert or at least reduce physical comfort issues before they happen.
Pick the right timing
This requires observation over time. You might want to try introducing the stroller to your baby at different times of the day and take note of the times or circumstances under which he is more willing to accept it – for example, early in the morning after your baby has had a good night’s sleep.
Make it fun
For babies and toddlers, you may try providing a beloved toy or object to keep them occupied in the stroller. For older children, consider inventing a game of sorts; for example, you can play spot the next red object and see who gets there first, by stroller of course – it’s faster.
Stay connected in some ways
Engage your baby with your voice or provide loving physical touch to give them the comfort of your presence. You can also consider a rear-facing stroller, so that your baby can have eye contact with you.
Take regular breaks
If your baby has been in the stroller for some time, give him sufficient opportunities to get out of the stroller before he starts crying.
For older children, give them a break from the stroller before they try to wrest their way out of the stroller.
Alternatives if your baby won’t sit in the stroller
When all else fails, and your baby won’t sit in the stroller no matter what you do, be comforted by the fact that there are alternatives, such as baby wearing.
Pick a baby carrier that is adequately supportive of your baby’s hips and which also provides good weight distribution to protect your body. These are usually foldable or capable of being rolled up and tucked away in your stroller basket or your diaper bag. In fact, it may be a good idea to be always prepared with a baby carrier as your back up plan.
In conclusion, don’t fret too much when your baby won’t sit in the stroller. With patience and some trial and error, you will be able to find a mode of transporting your baby that works.
Good luck!