When Do Kids Stop Using Strollers? Key Age & Signs

Key Takeaways

• Like many development milestones, there’s no age cutoff for using a stroller—every child is different.

• Most children are ready to transition away from using a stroller past the age of 3.

• There are physical and developmental benefits to transitioning away from using a stroller.

• Even once you no longer regularly use a stroller, you may still use one in certain environments (ie, when traveling).

Many parents wonder what the right age is to stop using a stroller. Like many milestones, there is no hard and fast rule. Every child is different and develops on his or her own timeline. In general though, most children are ready to transition away from using a stroller between the ages of 3 and 4.

But how do you know when your child is ready? Are there steps you can take to smooth the transition? Read on to learn more about how to handle outgrowing your stroller.

Understanding the Appropriate Time for Your Child to Stop Using Their Stroller

In general, most experts agree that children are typically ready to transition away from the stroller between the ages of 3 and 4. However, for kids who still benefit from occasional rides, finding the right stroller for 4 years old can make outings easier while supporting their growing independence.

Signs That a Child is Ready to Stop Using Stroller

Here are three specific signs to watch for to know that your child is ready to stop using a stroller.

Asking to Walk Instead of Ride

This might seem a little too obvious, but your child could actually tell you that they’re ready to stop using their stroller … with their words.

Having the Endurance to Walk Longer Distances

Sure, asking to walk instead of ride is one sign, but having the endurance to actually walk the whole time is something else. If your child is able to walk (and keep pace) for the duration of an outing, then they might be ready to stop using the stroller.

Following Directions

Stroller-free life can feel like the Wild West initially—your kid is free to move in any and all directions with little to no warning. Knowing your child understands and can follow instructions to stay close, wait, or hold your hand is key.

Benefits of Transitioning Away from Stroller Use

Of course, there are several physical and developmental benefits to transitioning away from stroller usage.

Your Child Will Burn Off More Energy

Walking, running, and roaming on your outings will help your child burn off excess energy throughout the day.

Your Child Works on Their Independence

Encouraging autonomy in developmentally appropriate ways is very important. Fostering independence by not relying on a stroller is a great opportunity to develop this skill.

It Doesn’t Have To Be “All or Nothing”

Even once your child transitions from frequent stroller usage, you may find that you still need one from time to time. For example, if you are traveling to a theme park, a big city, or another environment with significant walking, a stroller for 5 years old can still be a practical choice.

Challenges and Considerations for Transitioning Out of the Stroller

The biggest challenge of transitioning away from using a stroller is the lack of containment. Your secured, buckled-in child is now free to roam. This is when it can be important to take your child’s personality and temperament into account. Do you have a “walks right beside me and never strays more than an arm’s length away” type of child? Or do you have a  “darts through the parking lot like they’re playing Frogger on expert” kind of child? Anticipating challenges before they arise can be the biggest key to success. If you’re still shopping for one, understanding how to choose a stroller that matches your child’s age, activity level, and environment can also make future transitions much smoother.

Strategies for a Smooth Transition

While the stroller transition isn’t as rife with challenge as some (we’re looking at you, Big Kid Bed), there are a few steps you can take to make it as smooth as possible.

Talk About the Transition

Talk with your child about how they’re growing and becoming a big kid. Making it an exciting change worth celebrating can smooth over any resistance they might feel.

Make It About Them, Not a Sibling

Some parents might be tempted to “graduate” an older child from the stroller because a younger sibling needs it. That can backfire for some kids, causing them to regress and insist they “need it” as an attention-seeking behavior. If you can, try to keep it about their development and a new stage for them.

Make the Transition a Gradual One

Start by leaving the stroller behind on short outings or one where your child will be especially excited to walk (like one with a friend). Gradually work up to longer outings, and for those extended trips, consider jogging strollers that can keep pace with your child’s growing energy while still offering a break when needed.

Manage Your Kids’ Stroller Transitions Hassle Free with Orbit Baby

Orbit Baby can ease the transition from the stroller. Accessories like our Sidekick Skateboard can serve as graduated steps that keep your child safe (and let them rest their legs) while enjoying some of the freedom of “being a big kid.” Toddlerhood can be a transition-heavy phase, but with some preparation and forethought, those transitions can go more smoothly and be cause for celebration.