Stroller for 8 year old?

[ccgirl]

No problem. As I stated before, I think it must make people feel more accomplished as parents when they look at us that way. What other purpose would it serve? People are quick to excuse parents like you and me on this board because we can make it known that our kiddos aren't "normal". However, in the parks, people have no idea whether our kids have legitimate medical issues or if they are just "whiny and lazy". God forbid we give someone the benefit of the doubt.

Maybe we will pass each other next week at The World with our big kids in strollers, lol.

Some of the comments on this thread make me so sad. It's one thing to answer OP's question. It's a completely different thing to do it in such a nasty and mean-spirited way.

If I see an older child in a stroller, I assume there is a medical reason for it as with the use of a wheelchair or ECV. That does not make me feel more accomplished because I do not let my able bodied 8 year old ride in a stroller. However, this thread was started by a parent that admitted there was no medical necessity to the stroller, their 8 year old was just whiny and lazy (their words, not mine).

I just wanted to mention to those that use the stroller as the wheelchair for the older children, to get a GAC card so the stroller can truly be used as a wheelchair.

I hope everyone has a magical vacation.

 

[CandleontheWater]

If I see an older child in a stroller, I assume there is a medical reason for it as with the use of a wheelchair or ECV. That does not make me feel more accomplished because I do not let my able bodied 8 year old ride in a stroller. However, this thread was started by a parent that admitted there was no medical necessity to the stroller, their 8 year old was just whiny and lazy (their words, not mine).

I just wanted to mention to those that use the stroller as the wheelchair for the older children, to get a GAC card so the stroller can truly be used as a wheelchair.

I hope everyone has a magical vacation.

THIS! I don't give a second look to big kids in strollers in the parks, because I assume that they have some sort of disability. The same goes for anyone in a ECV or wheelchair. I did laugh at the grown man I saw being pushed around in a Disney double stroller, but that was just plain funny.

This post is a whole different story, the OP came on and openly told all of us that their child has no disability, only that they were whinny and could get tired. Armed with that information, I can completely understand the tone of these posts.

 

[Sabrefan]

How did the parents handle the heat, with the added energy needed to push two kids around?

I also disagree about 'doing [what] they believe is best for their kids - it's not for the kids, it's to avoid the whining.

We did just fine. The heat does not bother us like it did them. I did what I thought was best for my kids, it had nothing to do with the whining - and I am advising the OP to do what she thinks is best for her son, that doesn't necessarily mean get a stroller....maybe whats best for him is to NOT get a stroller who am I to decide or judge that, I dont even know her kid?

 

[Jaime4004]

First off - if she is complaining about the walking, have her checked out for flat feet. My oldest was a competitive gymnast, walked the parks at age 5, no complaints, but she had flat feet and needed good shoes to feel comfortable.

If everyone is getting tired from the walking, standing, and heat, wouldn't it just make sense to take a break?

That is actually a great suggestion, because I know that she does have flat feet. Never bought special shoes because it usually doesn't really affect her. Thanks!

 

[Jaime4004]

My mother's stock response to "I'm (tired, hungry, bored, etc.)!" was, "I'm (Mom's first name); nice to meet you!" The exception was, "I'm thirsty!" which was answered with, "I'm Friday; nice to meet you!"

Ha! My parents were with us and my father said that quite often this trip, as he often used to say when I was a kid...

 

[Neverland98]

Hi,
We went in November of 2010 with three children - just turned 5, just turned 7 and 8. No one asked for a stroller or even really complained (trust me - we've heard it before, so it wasn't like they weren't capable of complaining -LOL)

We did get everyone used to walking by doing some family walks ahead of time. They are active kids anyway, but running around the yard isn't always the same as going for a walk where you keep moving. I feel that if you can handle doing that, you will find Disney walking pretty smooth, since it isn't continuous. As others mentioned - pace yourself.

I have to lean toward those who suggest getting the WHOLE family ready to walk. You don't want to be the only tired one at day's end. I am a big proponent of kids exercising more (we walk to/from school, take weekend hikes, limit screen time and kick the kids outside ), too. Plus, it is a great way to spend some time together talking and exercising - especially as you plan out your Disney trip - must-do attractions, characters to meet, etc.

Who knows.... You may find that you can leave the stroller behind on a few days of your trip (maybe on any days when you plan a midday break) since your 4 year old might be able to walk further as well! You will also find your days more enjoyable if YOU can walk farther since you may be carrying weight (backpack) or pushing a stroller while at Disney! Lastly, I always think ptr-trip exercising entitles me to some extra tasty vacation snacks - mmmmm Mickey bars, Carrot Cake cookies, etc. Pre-trip walks are always a win-win!

Have fun!

 

[badblackpug]

Stroller threads always go like this:

The OP asks for opinions if she will need a stroller and the replies are.

1) Yes
2) No
3) Maybe (as in "wait and see and rent one if you need it")
4) Do what is best for your family
5) My kid has a disability and needs one

We can discount 4 and 5 because #4 the OP obviously doesn't know what is best at this point. If he/she knew she wouldn't have asked, and #5, in this case, the OP's child has no disability.

There is a vast difference between a child with a disability needing a stroller and a typical 8 year old. In all reality, if there weren't so many big kids being pushed around in strollers I think the general public would be more inclined to believe that the ones that are do have some sort of disability.

... but I digress... the OP asked for opinions. Just because people have an opinion that differs from yours does not mean they are being judgmental or acting superior. Some people happen to believe that a typical 8 year old has no need of a stroller, some believe they do.

Now onto my opinion.

WDW is a theme park, not the Bataan death march. You are there to have fun. If you are driving a healthy 8 year old to the point where they are physically unable to walk, then it is time to slow down. If someone, anyone, in your party is exhausted to the point of dropping, then you need to take a break. Whether that means calling it a night, or sitting down for a snack, or napping in the Hall of Presidents. Have some consideration for EVERYONE in your party. Don't be like Clark Griswald in National Lampoon's "Vacation," and drive your family to the breaking point for an experience YOU want them to have.

Personally, I am not going to wear myself out pushing a big kid in a stroller so that they can be well rested when we get back to the room, but that's just me. My kids aren't particularly athletic, and we don't do any WDW "training program," but I can tell you that from the age of about 5 on they had way more energy and stamina than the adults in the party. I also think that if the kids don't realize that a stroller is even an option, they won't want one.

That being said, I really don't care if others choose to push their big kids in strollers, it's their back. As for the people staring, remember that not everyone in the park is a veteran WDW traveler. They are not used to the phenomenon of bigger kids in a stroller. It is not something you see, really, anywhere but there. If someone is a 1st time visitor it might be a little surprising to them.

 

[RMulieri]

Stroller threads always go like this:

The OP asks for opinions if she will need a stroller and the replies are.

1) Yes
2) No
3) Maybe (as in "wait and see and rent one if you need it")
4) Do what is best for your family
5) My kid has a disability and needs one

We can discount 4 and 5 because #4 the OP obviously doesn't know what is best at this point. If he/she knew she wouldn't have asked, and #5, in this case, the OP's child has no disability.

There is a vast difference between a child with a disability needing a stroller and a typical 8 year old. In all reality, if there weren't so many big kids being pushed around in strollers I think the general public would be more inclined to believe that the ones that are do have some sort of disability.

... but I digress... the OP asked for opinions. Just because people have an opinion that differs from yours does not mean they are being judgmental or acting superior. Some people happen to believe that a typical 8 year old has no need of a stroller, some believe they do.

Now onto my opinion.

WDW is a theme park, not the Bataan death march. You are there to have fun. If you are driving a healthy 8 year old to the point where they are physically unable to walk, then it is time to slow down. If someone, anyone, in your party is exhausted to the point of dropping, then you need to take a break. Whether that means calling it a night, or sitting down for a snack, or napping in the Hall of Presidents. Have some consideration for EVERYONE in your party. Don't be like Clark Griswald in National Lampoon's "Vacation," and drive your family to the breaking point for an experience YOU want them to have.

Personally, I am not going to wear myself out pushing a big kid in a stroller so that they can be well rested when we get back to the room, but that's just me. My kids aren't particularly athletic, and we don't do any WDW "training program," but I can tell you that from the age of about 5 on they had way more energy and stamina than the adults in the party. I also think that if the kids don't realize that a stroller is even an option, they won't want one.

That being said, I really don't care if others choose to push their big kids in strollers, it's their back. As for the people staring, remember that not everyone in the park is a veteran WDW traveler. They are not used to the phenomenon of bigger kids in a stroller. It is not something you see, really, anywhere but there. If someone is a 1st time visitor it might be a little surprising to them.

Great post
and you are right that some people may stare, and may not be from this country.This sweet British couple that I met at Epcot on my last trip commented that it was strange to see bigger children in strollers and that you don't see it in Europe or anywhere else..

 

[focusondisney]

Now onto my opinion.

WDW is a theme park, not the Bataan death march. You are there to have fun. If you are driving a healthy 8 year old to the point where they are physically unable to walk, then it is time to slow down. If someone, anyone, in your party is exhausted to the point of dropping, then you need to take a break. Whether that means calling it a night, or sitting down for a snack, or napping in the Hall of Presidents. Have some consideration for EVERYONE in your party. Don't be like Clark Griswald in National Lampoon's "Vacation," and drive your family to the breaking point for an experience YOU want them to have.

Personally, I am not going to wear myself out pushing a big kid in a stroller so that they can be well rested when we get back to the room, but that's just me. My kids aren't particularly athletic, and we don't do any WDW "training program," but I can tell you that from the age of about 5 on they had way more energy and stamina than the adults in the party. I also think that if the kids don't realize that a stroller is even an option, they won't want one.

That being said, I really don't care if others choose to push their big kids in strollers, it's their back. As for the people staring, remember that not everyone in the park is a veteran WDW traveler. They are not used to the phenomenon of bigger kids in a stroller. It is not something you see, really, anywhere but there. If someone is a 1st time visitor it might be a little surprising to them.

This is one of the best posts I've read in a long time! You need to copy/ paste it every time one of these threads pops up!

 

[jenrose66]

Hi,
We went in November of 2010 with three children - just turned 5, just turned 7 and 8. No one asked for a stroller or even really complained (trust me - we've heard it before, so it wasn't like they weren't capable of complaining -LOL)

We did get everyone used to walking by doing some family walks ahead of time. They are active kids anyway, but running around the yard isn't always the same as going for a walk where you keep moving. I feel that if you can handle doing that, you will find Disney walking pretty smooth, since it isn't continuous. As others mentioned - pace yourself.

I have to lean toward those who suggest getting the WHOLE family ready to walk. You don't want to be the only tired one at day's end. I am a big proponent of kids exercising more (we walk to/from school, take weekend hikes, limit screen time and kick the kids outside ), too. Plus, it is a great way to spend some time together talking and exercising - especially as you plan out your Disney trip - must-do attractions, characters to meet, etc.

Who knows.... You may find that you can leave the stroller behind on a few days of your trip (maybe on any days when you plan a midday break) since your 4 year old might be able to walk further as well! You will also find your days more enjoyable if YOU can walk farther since you may be carrying weight (backpack) or pushing a stroller while at Disney! Lastly, I always think ptr-trip exercising entitles me to some extra tasty vacation snacks - mmmmm Mickey bars, Carrot Cake cookies, etc. Pre-trip walks are always a win-win!

Have fun!

We are also trying to get more healthy as a family. Today my DS 3 was able walk our entire daily walk route which is 1 mile! It took us about 3 times as long as if we would have put him in the stroller, but it's a start and he didn't complain he was tired. He actually had a great time.

 

[disneybirds]

I always love these threads. I think the OP has to decide for themselves about bringing a stroller for an 8 year old. I remember the trip when we took the girls at 6 and 9 years old. We took one umbrella stroller for the 6 year old. However, I have distinct memories of my 9 year old sitting in the stroller with her head pushing the canopy/cover up.

 

[Rymer]

I will answer this question the way I have answered it any other time.

DD was 5 years old on our first trip. We did not take a stroller for her, but we eventually rented one on the third or fourth day of the trip. Even still, she did not ride in it the whole day. It was more of a backup for the end of the day because the rest of us did not want to take breaks or go back to the room.

Fast forward to now. DS just turned 8. He is autistic, has sensory issues, low muscle tone, low stamina, and he is generally very "clunky" on his feet. We are planning on renting a double stroller at Disney for him next week when we are there. I know he is "too old" for a stroller. I know people will look at me with condescension for my choice because they don't know he has an invisible disability. I don't really care. He is my kid and I know what he needs in order to have an enjoyable trip.

My point is, all kids are different. Just because Mrs. Smith's 4 year old can tour the parks in true commando fashion with no stroller doesn't mean Mrs. Jones's 6 year old can do the same. If it turns out that your 8 year old needs a stroller, you put that 8 year old in a stroller and do it with a smile!

Have a great trip.

i totally agree with the above quote. My daughter will be 7 when we hit Disney this year and there is no way I'm going there without a stroller for her. i know she doesn't have the stamina to walk/stand around all day just from every day experience w/ her at home. people can look at me like i'm nuts, but I really don't care. the fits my daughter can throw will ruin an entire day (she has behavioral issues, we work w/ a therapist) but she can still manage to throw some screaming fits that last for hours...and the worst hit when she's tired. I'll take the stroller and the "looks" from other people any day over pushing my daughter to do what i know she's either unwilling or unable to do. she should have more energy but she doesn't....it is what it is. we need to make the trip as easy for us as possible, so stroller it will be. and we'll be happy doing so.

 

[Planogirl]

At some point these tired kids won't fit in regular strollers any more. What then?

I'm on the fence when it comes to whether older healthy kids ever need strollers but of course I do agree that it's not my business. I can't help but wonder when the parents of these kids with low stamina plan to make them walk though.

 

[kathleendsm]

Our 7 year old doesn't have the world's best stamina EXCEPT at Disney World! She can walk all day there, and only occasionally needs to hitch a ride on Daddy's back when we're walking to the car or bus. She hasn't touched a stroller in WDW since she was 5.

Our 4 year old son has developmental delays and special needs. We have gotten a GAC for him that lets us use the stroller as a wheelchair, both because of physical stamina and a need for a "safe place." He's a really tall 4 year old though, so we're not sure how much longer he's going to fit! On our trip this November we'll encourage him to walk as much as possible in the hopes of shedding the stroller (although I'll miss its water bottle storage capacity). I'd really rather not have to buy a special needs one, since they tend to be expensive, and the only place we use a stroller for him is WDW or other huge theme parks or zoos.

For typically developing 8 year olds with no physical or medical issues, I'd encourage them to walk, and take breaks as others have said. Then again, if you revel in the commando touring style, or have a shorter trip planned so are taking super long days in the park, do whatever you want to make it easier. It doesn't impact my trip either way!

 

[SaraJayne]

For a healthy 8 year old, a stroller shouldn't even be an option.

Actually, for any child that is a healthy 5+ years, a stroller shouldn't be an option.

 

[maxiesmom]

For a healthy 8 year old, a stroller shouldn't even be an option.

Actually, for any child that is a healthy 5+ years, a stroller shouldn't be an option.

That is your opinion. You are allowed it, and to decide what is best for your kids. Other people may have a different opinion, and they are allowed it too. And they are allowed to decide what they should or shouldn't do with their kids.

 

[SaraJayne]

That is your opinion. You are allowed it, and to decide what is best for your kids. Other people may have a different opinion, and they are allowed it too. And they are allowed to decide what they should or shouldn't do with their kids.

Of course it's my opinion. But don't be surprised when people (including other kids) roll their eyes and snicker.

 

[Corrine 1973]

That is your opinion. You are allowed it, and to decide what is best for your kids. Other people may have a different opinion, and they are allowed it too. And they are allowed to decide what they should or shouldn't do with their kids.

Exactly.

IMHO, most children by the time they reach 8 years old will not need (or want) to be in a stroller. Every child is diffrent though and have diffrent tolerances. Just because one child who can quite easily walk around the parks for several days hours on end with out difficulty mean that this is the same for every child. And this is for disabilities or non disabilities. It is us as parents who must decide what is the best for our children and what their limits are.

I also know what it's like to get nasty looks from people when your older child is in a stroller (definatly not everybody, but there is alway a couple). I took my eldest son there last spring when he had just turned 9 in a Volo stroller (he was only a couple pounds past the 50 lb weight limit) because of his Cystic Fibrosis. Even though I knew he would be able to sucessful do a park in one day, I was worried about the stress it would create after 6 days at the parks. Was he in the stroller all the time, no. But it was great knowing I had it there when he needed it. My goal for the trip was not to end it with a trip to the hospital (and yes we did get the GAC and the sticker for the stroller to use as a wheelchair.)

I am planning a trip with my DD next spring and haven't decided if I am going to get her a stroller or not yet. She will be just a couple of months away from her eight birthday. She was diagnosed with Asthma when she was 4 years old though she hasn't had an attack in over 2 years. At this point I am thinking I will not get a stroller but will have money set aside if she starts having problems. It also depends on her health between now and than.

 

[ccgirl]

As the above poster said, it is up to each parent to decide. The OP asked for opinions for their lazy, whiny child. (again, their words not mine).

I think getting a stroller for a lazy child just makes them lazier. Just my opinion.

My son has asthma with frequent attacks. Had to call 911, have to carry a nebulizer everywhere we go etc. He is fine at WDW without a stroller at age 4. Pediatrician said the walking is actually better for him as it strenthens his lungs. Again, it is not the Bataan March as an earlier poster mentioned. You are stopping at rides, lines, shows, eating etc.

 

[Corrine 1973]

As the above poster said, it is up to each parent to decide. The OP asked for opinions for their lazy, whiny child. (again, their words not mine).

I think getting a stroller for a lazy child just makes them lazier. Just my opinion.

My son has asthma with frequent attacks. Had to call 911, have to carry a nebulizer everywhere we go etc. He is fine at WDW without a stroller at age 4. Pediatrician said the walking is actually better for him as it strenthens his lungs. Again, it is not the Bataan March as an earlier poster mentioned. You are stopping at rides, lines, shows, eating etc.

I definatly agree with you. Getting a stroller for a lazy child is definatly not a good reason to get a stroller. That is one of the reasons I limit video game use at my house. It's a nice day outside, go burn off some energy and play. (I don't want to raise any couch potatoes. )

I am so sorry to here that your son has been hospitilized for his Asthma. I makes me feel better with my decision to not get a stroller for her next spring. I probably will still have some money set aside just in case. (Better safe than sorry, right?) I know I can be a little overprotective since my eldest son has a life threatning illness, so it's good to know that my DD's health will probably not be an issue if I don't have a stroller to push around.