6 year old: To stroller or not to stroller. . .

[believinthemagic]

I didn't see any comments about beating other kids up. As for the first part of the statement, I'd be far more concerned about the parents out there who let their kids go around humiliating other kids because they do something different than they are used to. That to me is a far bigger problem than whether or not a parent wants to help their child feel comfortable by giving them the option of a stroller on a day they'll be walking 8 or 10 miles. I say spend less time judging other people (and by doing so, teaching your kids to be judgemental) and more time being being compassionate and empathetic.

Agree!

 

[HHSTigerFan]

If that's the case and your kid is that fit, he shouldn't need a stroller - the 'breaks' you get on rides/attractions should be sufficient

You are assuming that I tour the parks the same as you..

 

[GillianP1301]

And now that I'm sufficiently annoyed with this thread...

Why is it that people assume that kid that uses a stroller in Disney is lazy or out of shape? We're talking extenuating circumstances here. If people were saying it's a good idea to take your 6 year old for a walk around the block in a stroller, then I could understand the backlash, but using a stroller as a one off during a Disney vacation with a kid that is otherwise very active and walking is not even close to the same thing.


For what it's worth, my DS is 4, hasn't used a stroller on a regular basis in over 2 years and has used one maybe 3 or 4 times since he was 2 1/2. I'm still renting a stroller at Disney for him. Could he walk all day for 8 days? I'm sure he could. But the whole point of this trip is to do something special for him and if riding and chilling out for a bit during the day or to and from a parking lot makes it more enjoyable for him, then so be it.

If anyone chooses to make a different decision than mine for their family, then that's okay too, I'm certainly not going to judge you for that.

 

[HHSTigerFan]

I didn't see any comments about beating other kids up. As for the first part of the statement, I'd be far more concerned about the parents out there who let their kids go around humiliating other kids because they do something different than they are used to. That to me is a far bigger problem than whether or not a parent wants to help their child feel comfortable by giving them the option of a stroller on a day they'll be walking 8 or 10 miles. I say spend less time judging other people (and by doing so, teaching your kids to be judgemental) and more time being being compassionate and empathetic.

Exactly... our son is a big, strong and athletic kid for a 6 year old, one of the first things we taught him when playing youth sports was to be kind to those that aren't as talented.. we haven't owned a stroller since he was 3, us possibly using a stroller has nothing to do with him, but rather ME and how I want to do the parks..

 

[Phatoomch]

You are assuming that I tour the parks the same as you..

Nope. I'm going by the fact that I have always made my daughter walk. At 6 she was able to 'stroll' all day from morning til late, unless of course you power walk around Disney, she maybe couldn't have coped with that.

Sorry, my bad. I should have read your previous post a bit better. I now realise that you get a stroller for your benefit, not your kid

 

[Bonniec]

Oh for goodness sake! Can someone PLEASE close this thread!!! It is debates like this that make me think maybe I shouldn't bother being on disboards. A mature adult can give an opinion without degrading all parents who don't agree with them!!

 

[Phatoomch]

And now that I'm sufficiently annoyed with this thread...

Why is it that people assume that kid that uses a stroller in Disney is lazy or out of shape? We're talking extenuating circumstances here. If people were saying it's a good idea to take your 6 year old for a walk around the block in a stroller, then I could understand the backlash, but using a stroller as a one off during a Disney vacation with a kid that is otherwise very active and walking is not even close to the same thing.


For what it's worth, my DS is 4, hasn't used a stroller on a regular basis in over 2 years and has used one maybe 3 or 4 times since he was 2 1/2. I'm still renting a stroller at Disney for him. Could he walk all day for 8 days? I'm sure he could. But the whole point of this trip is to do something special for him and if riding and chilling out for a bit during the day or to and from a parking lot makes it more enjoyable for him, then so be it.

If anyone chooses to make a different decision than mine for their family, then that's okay too, I'm certainly not going to judge you for that.

No 'people' don't think that. Some may but I certainly don't. If you re-read my post you will see that I do not assume a child to be lazy.

 

[GillianP1301]

No 'people' don't think that. Some may but I certainly don't. If you re-read my post you will see that I do not assume a child to be lazy.

You are right, sorry. I should've said "some people". I guess it's those posts that were sticking out to me and what I was thinking about when I wrote that. Still annoys me, even if it's just a few judgemental ones.

 

[Phatoomch]

You are right, sorry. I should've said "some people". I guess it's those posts that were sticking out to me and what I was thinking about when I wrote that. Still annoys me, even if it's just a few judgemental ones.

Thats ok The whole stroller thing is a hot topic - I personally think its ok for a child to walk in Disney because of all the breaks what with rides, attractions, eating ... I mean, its not like they are doing a straight 8mile walk.

 

[pgianna]

A six year old should be fine without a stroller. Dont worry and have a good time.


Posted from Disney Forums Reader for Android

 

[DisneyWonder]

Oh for goodness sake! Can someone PLEASE close this thread!!! It is debates like this that make me think maybe I shouldn't bother being on disboards. A mature adult can give an opinion without degrading all parents who don't agree with them!!

YES!!! My goodnes...this thread has gotten ridiculous! Not sure why everyone has to take such a judgmental tone... The DisBoards are supposed to be FUN!

 

[justtobeme2]

Ok here is my .05 and guess what I don't have any kids and never wanted any either (but I like other people's kids). Anyway get a stroller or don't. Use it for your kid or as a wagon for your stuff. I could care less. I use a scooter and some have something to say about that sometimes because I don't "look" disabled (back surgeries). I think the stroller debate is more about people thinking/feeling of parents coddling little Johnny and making him into a whimpy (some parents don't see it that way and whimpy is OK with me) kid. I vote for "do anything you can to make your kid stop whining, yelling, screaming, stomping, hitting and just throwing tantrums because I'd like to have a nice vacation also.

I love to chat up little kids at Disney, talk about their pins or what they rode. Once had a long conversation with a couple and little boy who was scared to ride some ride (I forget) that wasn't scary like jungle tours or something. They were trying to convince him and we joined in explaining we had ridden and it wasn't scary at all.

Funny we were never allowed to scream, screech, yell, swear, hit, call anyone a liar or throw tantrums at any age, ever and I had the greatest MOM and Dad. We weren't allowed to fuss and fight amongst each other in their presence. We had lots of fun and myself and my siblings are great friends I think because of it. Oh I got off track sorry.

Folks you aren't going to change people's parenting styles on this board by pooh poohing their use of a stroller. Let it go, it will NOT ruin your vacation.

 

[redkel]

Should I start a Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding sub thread? I know -- let's discuss co-sleeping! Let the flames ignite...

I don't think the OP wanted parenting advice, but was looking for some opinions to base her decision on. Why do these things always degrade into judgmental "I'm right and you're wrong" posts? At least, the DIS is consistent.

It's nice to do a survey and get input/opinions, but ultimately -- as long as I'm not running over your ankles with my 6 year old in her stroller and I'm using it because it's a good fit for my family and our tour of WDW, then why should anyone else care?

Don't like abortion? Don't get one. Don't believe in gay marriage? Don't marry someone of the same sex. Don't think your 6 year old needs a stroller at WDW? Don't bring/use one.

I'm having a good time with my family on vacation, regardless. I hope you are too! Easy peasy, nice and cheesy.

 

[wendylovesdisney]

. I think the stroller debate is more about people thinking/feeling of parents coddling little johnny and making him into a whimpy (some parents don't see it that way and whimpy is ok with me) kid. I vote for "do anything you can to make your kid stop whining, yelling, screaming, stomping, hitting and just throwing tantrums because i'd like to have a nice vacation also.

this.

 

[MDChris]

Wow! I hadn't looked at this post for a little while and suddenly people who use strollers for 5 and 6 year olds are bad parents with obese kids. Seriously? This is supposed to be a friendly board to discuss strategies and tips.

Bring the stroller if it makes you happy, I will for my 5 and 3 year old because it is easier for us. Yes my kids can make the walk and no they're not obese.

I think the next discussion should be about who has the best college degree and whose father can beat up everyone else's father.

That being said I'm going to down a gallon of ice cream and study for my GED.

 

[djp0630]

We rented a double stroller from a stroller company (not Disney) for our 4 & 6 year old. We brought one from home for the twins. I probably wouldn't have rented one for just the 6 year old but we figured we would for the 4 year old (who turned 4 today) so why not do a double stroller. My 6 year old rode in it more than my 4 year old but I'm glad we did. I know if we didn't she would have been complaining in the heat about all the walking!

 

[chloe4ever]

Don't like abortion? Don't get one. Don't believe in gay marriage? Don't marry someone of the same sex. Don't think your 6 year old needs a stroller at WDW? Don't bring/use one.

Best. Advice. Ever.

 

[North of Mouse]

Who cares if you bring one for your older child or not - you would have tons of company.

Just don't understand why people start these kind of threads over and over knowing that they are "hot spots" The OP is not a newbie so would have doubtless seen many of these threads and how they go south quickly. You have to do what YOU want, don't ask total strangers such a question when they don't know, never met, you or your child. Sometimes I just feel like they're started just to

OP, enjoy your trip and stroll your 6 yr. old all you want! As long as we don't have to push, we don't care. Might just keep everyone from hearing more whiney, uncontrolled kids.

Yes, we had three children, brought them to Disney, but strollerless after 3 yrs. No whineing allowed, they were too excited to be there.

 

[nessz79]

We have typically not used a stroller when our kids were this age, EXCEPT when one has been sick. He was getting over a cold/ear infection and started getting worn out and sick again. We rented a stroller the next day and used it all day and he was feeling much better after that.

However, under normal circumstances, we would not use a stroller but instead take breaks, take it slower, and watch our kids. If they're too tired to walk, it's time to rest.

 

[petrola]

To OP, I wouldn't worry too much about what others think - you know your child best and if you think you may need it then bring it to be safe. We are going in one week and will be bringing a stroller for our 3 yo DD. Not a huge comfy stroller - but a small Maclaren umbrella stroller. It really isn't a bother to bring it and we'll have it just in case. After the first day in the parks you'll have a better idea if your DD will be using it throughout the day and if not, you can always leave it in your room. But like some previous posters have mentioned, even if my DD decides to walk most of the day, I can still use it for all my bags! Have a great trip...