Baby Hates Stroller: What to Do? Best 2022 Tips for Comfy Strolling!

by Kathy Warner

Babies and toddlers generally like strolling, as they can explore the new world surrounding them. However, older babies might show resistance and not want to use strollers anymore.

This leads us to the main question: What to do if a baby hates stroller & how to make them more comfortable while strolling around?

The advisor offers you the best tips & tricks on how to lure little ones into strollers, guidelines to make them cozier, and alternatives if they still hate restraints.

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Take away key points:

  • Kiddos might oppose their stroller/seat for multiple reasons (discomfort, loneliness, temperament, sensitivity, premature birth…)
  • Don’t worry if your baby hates car seat/stroller/bouncer since they need time to adapt to the restraint straps
  • Teach and practice with kiddos to make them comfortable in restraints
  • Use alternatives - slings and carriers to make them more comfortable until they’re ready for the restraints

Why do some children fuss in the stroller, car seat, or bouncy seat, screaming bloody murder?

Below you can learn the leading cause for discomfort and how to calm your children down while strapping them in the restraint.

Why does a child hate a car seat, stroller, or bouncer?

There are multiple reasons why a little one might hate car seats, strollers, baby carriers/swings, or bouncy seats, including:

baby hates stroller all of a sudden
  • Babies are uncomfortable. Your kid might not like the car seat or stroller straps that constrain them. However, you must choose a baby carrier, car seat, or stroller that ensures physical comfort for your baby. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use age-appropriate restraints to eliminate possible cuttings into your baby's skin.
  • Babies are overstimulated. Kids need more time to adapt to the real world. Too much noise, visual stimulation, or movement might upset children, especially when riding in a moving car.
  • Babies are lonely. Kids might be upset when most parents/caregivers don't place them in their hands while moving them to the car seat, baby carrier, or stroller. They cannot feel the contact with your body, so they'll be uncomfortable.
  • A baby has motion sickness. Your little one might be upset since they might feel car sick. Although motion sickness is more frequent in older children and toddlers than in infants, some babies may still experience it.
  • A baby might be fussier by nature. Personality is another potential factor causing discomfort. Some children are restless and fussier, so their unique temperament plays a crucial role when discussing hatred towards restraints. Kiddo might not like a stroller or car seat or dislike the sudden routine changes coming with the constant contact with the restraint systems.
  • A baby is colicky or premature. Colicky and premature babies are more sensitive to movement, light, or noise, so they naturally dislike a stroller, car seat, or bouncer seat.

When will a baby stop disliking a stroller, car seat, or bouncer?

As a baby ages, they will overpass the crying and fussiness inside the stroller, bouncer, or seat. Kids mostly cry during their first three months of life. However, colicky or premature children tend to overcome this after the first few months of their life.

In addition, some babies never adapt to restraints, so parents shouldn't be discouraged when their son/daughter still doesn't find physical comfort in constraints. It's not a big deal with swings or bouncers - if the baby dislikes them, you won't use the items.

However, there's no room for negotiation when you're on the road. Putting kids into the stroller is essential for all parents when out of the house. So, if your baby still hates restraint straps, they must be strapped for maximum safety standards.

Best tips to calm the baby who hates a stroller, car seat, or bouncer

Several things help you soothe your little one and acclimate them to the stroller or similar restraint to finish your errands or give your hands a break. These include:

8 month old baby hates stroller
  • Staying in sight. If your baby cannot see you and is upset, you can try staying visible as much as possible. You can touch or talk to the child to see if that soothes them. Or, you can place a baby into a rear-facing stroller to ensure they can see you correctly.
  • Settling your baby. Avoid putting your kiddo into a stroller, bouncer, or seat whenever possible if you notice a strong dislike. They will become angrier, so try placing them in restraints again when they're happy and calm.
  • Trying a scenery change. Your baby will calm down as long as they have a better view. You can place a bouncer in front of a mirror so the baby can see their reflection or attach safe toys to the seat, to play with. You could bring the seat inside the house and strap your baby to adjust to the restraint, but not for too long.
  • Distracting children. Before you place the baby inside the stroller, put them into the crib, play mat, or a blanket on the floor. Ensure the baby is always on their back in the crib to eliminate SIDS. You can play relaxing music, white noise, or toys to admire. Once they are happy and settled, you can strap them into the stroller or seat. Music is also an excellent choice if your baby must wear seat belt straps in the moving vehicle.
  • Slinging children up. If your baby needs you, carry them in a sling similar or a similar carrier to keep them as close as possible. However, once you're in a car, your baby must be in the age-appropriate seat and correctly restrained during the ride.

What are alternatives if your infant still dislikes a stroller?

You must have a good backup plan when a child doesn't want to sit in the stroller and ride around. Baby-wearing is an excellent idea instead of a stroller or similar restraint.

A mom should choose a supportive baby carrier keeping her baby's hips and providing good weight distribution to protect and support her body's balance. You can fold and place them inside the stroller basket or diaper bag. Your baby can sleep in the carrier when tired, and the unit cannot hurt them. Once they fall asleep, you can move them to the crib to sleep on their back and prevent SIDS.

FAQs

Why does my baby not like the pram?

There are multiple reasons why babies won't sit in the stroller. For instance, they can be bored, and you must think of fun and entertaining ways to keep them in the stroller, seat, or similar restraints for an extended period.

baby hates stroller and car seat

How do I get my baby to like walking?

You can reward your children with toys or similar funny objects to make them like walking. You can practice inside their room, with your help to be stable enough, and give them rewards and positive encouragement once they 'cross the finish line.'

Why does my baby scream in the car seat?

There are various reasons for a baby screaming in the car seats, including:

- Discomfort

- Sensitivity

- Loneliness

- Temperament

- Car sickness

- Colicky and premature children

How can I make my baby's stroller more comfortable?

You must check the manufacturer's instructions and use the age-appropriate car seat for infants. In addition, you can use rear-facing models to let your baby see you all the time.

Another option is to use head and body support (pillows) to make children cozier. Finally, bring toys for more fun on the road.

Final Thoughts

Don't be discouraged if you notice baby hates stroller and your child screams in the stroller/car seat. Wait for a while and be creative - think of multiple ways to keep them entertained in the restraints.

However, always follow the experts' advice and encourage your little ones until they no longer feel uncomfortable in restraints.

Avatar of Kathy Warner

Kathy Warner

Kathy is a busy mother of two and a CPS technician for more than eight years. Her mission is to awaken parents to the importance of child passenger safety and show them the right practice. You can read more about her here

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