Sure, my little one is nearly 4 years old, and I still use a stroller for him—often. And honestly, I couldn’t care less about what anyone else thinks about it.
Trust me, I’ve heard plenty of opinions. For those nosy onlookers who gasp at the sight, here’s the scoop: I don’t have a car, and living in a bustling city like New York means our stroller is essential for getting around.
My child is easily distracted. When I let him walk (which I do depending on the situation and his mood), I find myself constantly coaxing him to focus on where he’s going, stop climbing every staircase we pass, hold my hand, and avoid walking on the grass marked with “Keep Off.” It can be exhausting, and if I need to be somewhere at a specific time, I simply don’t have the energy for that. With my spirited child, a walk can be downright draining.
I typically reserve the stroller for longer distances or shopping trips, where it proves invaluable. When we venture into the city, the stroller is a must. The crowds can be overwhelming, and even when he holds my hand, it can be tiring for him to walk. His little legs tire quickly, and sometimes he’ll tug on my hand and plead, “Mommy, walk slowly!” I try, but my natural pace is brisk. Until he learns to keep up, it’s often easier for both of us if I just pop him in the stroller. This way, I can move quickly without him slowing us down.
Moreover, the stroller offers him a way to shut out the chaos when he needs to. While he can be friendly, he also tends to be shy around strangers. If he gets overwhelmed, he can simply pull the sunshade down, blocking out the world. This spares me the trouble of him hiding behind my legs, which usually results in tripping over him.
His stroller has a snack tray where I can stash some fruit snacks or M&Ms to keep him occupied, and there’s a cup holder for his water bottle, so I’m not fishing it out every few minutes.
The best part? If he dozes off, I don’t have to lug him around! I love my son, but he weighs like a bag of bricks when he’s asleep. I recline the stroller, and he can nap peacefully without me struggling to carry him.
Shopping is also way easier when he’s strapped in, especially on busy days with multiple stops. He’s quite the runner, so it’s a relief not to have to constantly remind him to hold my hand, avoid touching everything on the shelves, or not hide in the clothing racks. It makes for a more enjoyable experience for both of us and for those around us.
I’m always taken aback by how many people feel the need to comment on him being in a stroller. “Isn’t he a bit too big for that?” is a frequent remark. I usually respond, “Well, he’s 3, so…” I don’t owe anyone a lengthy explanation, and yes, he can walk if he wants, but that’s really none of their business.
Honestly, if someone offered you the chance to be pushed around in a stroller, with a sunshade and snacks at your fingertips, wouldn’t you jump at it? I don’t care if he’s 5—he’s my child, and we’re both perfectly content with this arrangement.
For more insights on parenting and options for family building, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination. If you’re curious about at-home options, you can find some great information on artificial insemination kits. Additionally, for more details on the topic, visit Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, using a stroller for my almost-4-year-old is practical for our urban lifestyle. It helps manage distractions, provides comfort, and makes outings more enjoyable for both of us. So the next time you see a preschooler in a stroller, remember: sometimes, it’s just a smart choice for busy parents.