What stroller should I get for special needs taller 5 yr old

[kc10family]

I am trying to get a stroller for a friend whose child is special needs and getting to the point that they cannot walk for long periods of time. What stroller do you suggest for a 5 yr old with a bit longer legs?

Thank you

 

[Gracie09]

They can rent a special needs stroller. But if they don't want to they can try the City Elite. Its like the City Mini but on steroids. So easy fold ,big canopy, tall seat.

 

[cattywampus]

We rented the City Elite from Kingdom for a leggy, 49" 6 year old. It was slightly cramped but absolutely fine and easy to push, even with a larger child. The canopy was incredibly large and so nice.

Kingdom has a Special Needs "Push Chair", which is a step up from the Elite in size and room, but probably harder to fold, etc.

 

[Kellykins1218]

If you mean buying one, We have Joovy Zoom 360 jogging strollers for our special needs boys (7 & 9). The Zoom has a higher weight limit than most and has plenty of legroom.

 

[lanejudy]

Are you asking about renting one for a WDW vacatin? There are "special needs" strollers available from at least a couple of the stroller vendors, these are larger and have a higher weight limit to accommodate older/larger kids.

Or are you asking in general -- possibly considering a purchase? I've found Adaptive Mall to be a good resource, it has some good descriptions of various special needs strollers even if you don't buy from them. Also have the mom check out whether their health insurance may cover it. If buying, I suggest they think ahead as to what the needs might be not just now for a 5-yr-old, but also as an 8 or 10 yr old. Special needs strollers are expensive so getting something that will be outgrown in just a year or so can be a waste. If there's thought he may need it for several years, go with a higher weight limit.

When DD was 6 and outgrew a regular stroller, we purchased a used Maclaren Major Elite stroller. We really only use it for vacations now, but did use it occasionally for day trips or special evening community events that had a lot of walking. Her stamina has increased enough that we're good for most single-day events, but on a weeklong vacation we still need it.

Good luck!

 

[kc10family]

I should have clarified, it is not for rental. A group of us want to buy the family a stroller. The sad thing is, if the doctors are correct, the child will only live a few more years, so growing out of it may not be an issue. I googled a lot of different strollers but then figure it would be best to ask those who may already be using strollers for special needs children.

Thank you everyone! I know have some more google searches today. This is so helpful.

 

[lanejudy]

That's very kind of you! If the concern is strictly stamina then any special needs stroller may due. If the child needs (or may need in the future) ability to recline and such, you'll want to consider those options (the Maclaren does not recline). Also think about whether the stroller will need a "transport" package, meaning the child can remain in the stroller and it be tied-down on accessible transportation (school bus, car, etc.) or if the family will be able to transfer him to a vehicle. Considering the medical condition, the child's insurance may cover at least a portion of the cost -- you could chip in any deductible or uncovered bit; special needs strollers can be quite expensive. Many people in my area use a Convaid, there are various models depending on need.

 

[redberyl]

I also would say convaid, but definitely check with insurance first. My 6 year old daughter can walk fine mostdays but has stamina issues. She can make it through the grocery store but not the mall for example. When shes really sick its a different story, she cant even make it from the driveway to the house. Anyway, I just mentioned the mall bit to the physical therapist and she called the doctor and insurance approved a special needs strolleror wheelchair, our choice. I was shocked they approved it, I wouldnt have dreamt of requesting one if not fir the therapist