Can you put a newborn in a stroller?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

Absolutely! I remember when my little one was a newborn, and I was so excited to take them out for walks in the stroller. It was such a great way to get some fresh air and introduce them to the world. So, to answer your question, yes, you can put a newborn in a stroller, but there are a few things to consider.

Firstly, it’s important to make sure that your stroller is suitable for newborns. Some strollers come with a bassinet attachment or a car seat adapter, which allows you to safely transport your newborn. These options provide a flat and secure surface for your little one to lie on, which is crucial for their safety and comfort.

If your stroller doesn’t have a bassinet or car seat adapter, you can still use it for your newborn, but you’ll need to take some extra precautions. Make sure that the stroller seat reclines fully so that your newborn can lie down comfortably. This will help to prevent their head from flopping forward, which can be dangerous for their airway.

It’s also essential to ensure that your newborn is securely strapped into the stroller. Most strollers have a 5-point harness system, which includes straps that go over their shoulders, around their waist, and between their legs. This will keep them safely in place and prevent them from sliding or falling out.

Another thing to consider is the duration of your stroller outings with a newborn. Newborns have delicate neck muscles and limited head control, so it’s best to keep their stroller trips relatively short. Aim for no more than 30 minutes at a time, and be mindful of their cues for when they’ve had enough. If they start fussing or seem uncomfortable, it’s time to take a break and give them a rest.

As your baby grows and develops, you can gradually transition them to a more upright position in the stroller seat. Once your baby can support their head on their own, which typically happens around three months old, you can start using the stroller seat in a slightly reclined position. This will allow them to have a better view of their surroundings while still providing adequate support for their developing neck muscles.

Around five to seven months old, when your baby can sit up on their own, you can switch to fully upright in the stroller seat. This will give them a more open view and allow them to interact with their environment. Just make sure to always keep an eye on them and ensure that they are securely strapped in.

Yes, you can put a newborn in a stroller, but it’s important to take certain precautions. Use a stroller that is suitable for newborns, ensure that your baby is securely strapped in, and be mindful of their comfort and cues. As your baby grows, you can gradually transition them to a more upright position in the stroller seat. Enjoy those stroller outings with your little one and cherish these precious moments together!