Having a baby is hard. Raising that little baby is even harder. But there are all kinds of parenting hacks out there to help make parenting a little easier, like putting vapor rub on a child’s feet and socks over them to relieve nighttime coughing, or using a shower caddy to corral road trip essentials. Here’s another one you may not know about: a reversible stroller.
How do reversible strollers make parenting easier?
Reversible strollers were designed to make life simpler for active, on-the-go parents or parents who just want life to be a little less complicated when they need (or want) to leave the house. Picture yourself in these two scenarios and ask yourself, “Would I rather have a reversible stroller or a traditional stroller that only faces one way?” Scenario 1: You’ve been cooped up inside your house for three days straight. You have to get out of the house, so you decide to go for a walk. After one turn and only two minutes of being outside, it’s all of the sudden really windy and the sun is shining right in your baby’s face. Now what? With a reversible stroller, this scenario isn’t a problem. You don’t have to turn around and go home or take an alternative route. You can simply change the direction your baby is facing in the stroller so the sun and wind aren’t bothering them. This lets you keep moving in the same direction and enjoying your time outside. Scenario 2: You’re in line at the store when all of the sudden your child, who’s facing away from you, starts screaming. There are people in front of and behind you and the checkout lane is too narrow to turn the stroller around to face you, leaving you unable to calm your child down and cringing with each piercing scream. Again, with a reversible stroller, you can easily avert a long, loud tantrum and the embarrassment of your child crying in public. It allows you to quickly face your child and calm them down. With a reversible seat stroller, you’d detach the seat and turn it around so the seat and child now face you. With a reversible handle stroller, you’d move the handle forward and walk around to the now front of the stroller so you’re looking at your baby and can easily back up out of the checkout lane. An upset child is more likely to calm down when they can see and talk to their parent face-to-face. Another thing parents can struggle with is having enough time in the day to bond with your child and get stuff done. With a reversible stroller, you’re able to get your errands done and still bond. You can have them facing you so they can interact with you, or you can have them facing out so they get outside stimulation.
What other benefits do reversible strollers offer?
Besides versatility, reversible strollers offer developmental benefits for babies and toddlers. Child development is at the forefront of every parent’s mind. You’ve probably heard other parents say one or more of the following: “You need to breastfeed because it’ll make your baby smarter.” “Make sure you’re singing and reading books to them every day.” “No matter how much your baby hates it, it’s important for their development to have tummy time two to three times a day for at least five minutes at a time.” Every parent wants their child to develop at the rate doctors and science say they should and hit all their milestones on time. Reversible strollers can lend a hand with that, as they’ve been suggested to help with healthy brain, speech and language development in both babies and toddlers.
Updated Note*
Our 180 stroller is no longer distributed. The Metro+ and Metro+ Deluxe Stroller is our feature stroller and can support your family from newborn and beyond! To get all the benefits of parent-facing strollers, you can also babywear! Babywearing provides similar benefits to parent-facing strollers and the added benefits of skin-to-skin contact and bonding. Learn more here.
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!