Indeed, my child is nearing four years old, and I still often use a stroller for him. And you know what? I couldn’t care less what others think about it. Trust me, there are plenty of opinions out there.
To those who are shocked and clutching their pearls at the sight, here’s the reality: I don’t have a car, and we frequently navigate a bustling urban environment (New York City, to be specific). Thus, the stroller is a vital part of our transportation strategy.
My son can be easily distracted. When I let him walk—depending on our destination and his mood—I often find myself spending extra time urging him to stay focused. I have to remind him to avoid climbing steps, hold my hand, and not walk on the grass that clearly says, “Please do not walk here.” It can be exhausting, and when time is of the essence, I simply can’t afford those distractions. With my energetic child, a stroll can leave me completely drained.
Most of the time, I reserve the stroller for longer journeys or shopping trips, and it’s a lifesaver in those instances. Whenever we go to the city, the stroller is a must. The crowds can be overwhelming, and even if he holds my hand, walking can be tiring for a little one.
After all, he’s still a small child! His legs are short, and he tires quickly. “Mommy, walk slowly!” he often requests while tugging at my hand. I try to accommodate, but my natural instinct is to walk briskly. Until he learns to keep pace, it’s generally easier for both of us if he rides in the stroller. This way, if I need to move quicker, he doesn’t slow us down.
Moreover, being in the stroller allows him to zone out when necessary. Although he can be quite sociable, he still has moments of shyness and unease around strangers. If he feels overwhelmed, he can simply pull the sunshade down and tune out the world, which benefits both him and me. It prevents him from hiding behind my legs, which inevitably leads to me tripping over him.
The stroller comes with a snack tray, so I can easily give him fruit snacks or M&Ms to keep him occupied, and he can place his water bottle in the cup holder, preventing constant retrieval on my part.
The best part? If he falls asleep, I don’t have to carry him. I love my son, but he often feels like a 50-pound bag of bricks when he’s asleep. Instead of struggling with a sleepy child, I simply recline the stroller and let him drift off.
Shopping is also more manageable when he’s in the stroller, especially in busy areas or on days with multiple stops. He’s quite the runner, so avoiding constant battles over hand-holding, shelf-touching, and hide-and-seek in clothing racks makes the experience enjoyable for both of us—and less stressful for everyone else around.
It never ceases to amaze me how many people feel the need to comment on his stroller use. “Isn’t he a bit too big for that?” is a frequent remark. “Well, he’s three, so…” is my usual response. I really don’t owe anyone further explanation. Yes, he has the option to walk if he wants, but ultimately, it’s none of your business.
If you could be pushed around in a stroller with a sunshade and snacks within reach, wouldn’t you? I don’t care if he’s five; he’s my child, and we’re both perfectly content with this arrangement.
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In summary, utilizing a stroller for my preschooler is a practical choice that benefits both of us. It enhances our mobility, keeps him engaged, and allows for a smoother experience in bustling environments.
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