For walks to the park or shopping at the mall, a stroller can become almost as essential as the family car. It lets baby lounge in comfort, and it frees a parent from lifting and carrying.
A stroller that reclines completely and is well protected by a canopy can carry newborns. Otherwise, when your baby is about 3 months, start using a canopied stroller that supports the infant in a semi-reclining position. Many parents continue to use the stroller for tired kids up to about age 4.
In 1983, the JPMA developed a voluntary program for certification of strollers. Look for their certification seal and these safety features when picking one out:
* It must have a wide wheel base to guard against tipping, even when your child leans far over one side or reclines backward.
* Choose large wheels or sets of double wheels that help stabilize the stroller. Models with swiveling wheels give a smoother ride.
* Make sure that the seat belt is durable, for it will get hard use for several years. Is it easy to use? If not, you may not want to bother with it. But, to be safe, you must fasten it whenever you seat your child in the stroller.
* Test the brake to be sure it is easy to find and operate in a hurry and that it locks the wheels securely. Don't leave your child unattended in a stroller, no matter how good its brakes are.
*The basket for carrying supplies should be mounted low on the back of the stroller, in front of or directly over the rear wheels.
TIP: Try to resist the urge to sling purses and shopping bags on a stroller's handles as the weight could tip the stroller.
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