How long is a child allowed to be in a buggy?

Buggy Guide: How long can a child stay in a buggy?

How long can a child use a buggy?

When your little one becomes more attentive, curiously observes their surroundings, and starts lifting their head more often during walks, it’s a sign: they want to see more of the world. Many parents start to wonder during this phase when the right time is to get a buggy and what role this new companion will play in daily life.

A buggy offers many advantages compared to a classic pushchair with a sports seat, especially as your baby gets older and more active. It is lighter, more compact, and often easier to transport, making it the most flexible option for trips, travel, or everyday life in the city. At the same time, modern reclining buggies ensure that your child travels comfortably and safely even while sleeping—whether you’re strolling through the city centre or off on a weekend outing to the countryside.

With the right buggy, such as the PICO³, PICO³⁶⁰ or PLIA² from my junior®, you enjoy maximum flexibility while your little one discovers the world from a new perspective.

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When is the perfect time for a buggy?

As a rule, this moment comes when your baby can sit up independently and securely. This usually happens between the sixth and ninth month of life. By then, the back muscles are sufficiently strengthened to support your child in an upright position without putting strain on their spine.

From this point on, your little one can discover the world sitting upright, with curious eyes, new impressions, and a completely different perspective on their surroundings. At the same time, you continue to provide comfort, security, and safety, so that every ride in the buggy becomes a little everyday adventure, filled with joy and trust.

The most important thing first: your child's development

Every child develops at their own pace, and that's exactly how it should be. Some babies are active early and try to sit up after just a few months. Others take a little more time to strengthen their muscles and coordination. The main thing is not when this moment comes, but that your baby is supported safely along the way.

Before your child sits in the buggy for longer periods, they should have developed stable core muscles and be able to sit without tipping to the side or falling forward. This ability shows that the spine and back muscles have built up enough strength to hold the new upright position.

In the first months of life, the spine is still C-shaped and very delicate. It needs time to develop and stabilise naturally. For this reason, a pram with a carrycot should always be prioritised during this phase. The flat lying position supports the healthy development of the spine and ensures your baby feels completely safe and secure.

When you notice your baby becoming more active, able to hold their head up securely, and starting to sit up by themselves, the transition to the buggy is the next natural step: gently, with support, and always at your little one’s own pace.

How long can a child sit in a buggy?

Basically, movement is important. A buggy should not “hold” your baby in place for too long, but rather relieve them on longer walks or outings.

As a rule of thumb, experts recommend that children can be pushed in a buggy up to around the age of 3 or 4, depending on their size, weight, and activity level.

Tip: Pay attention to ergonomic seating positions and an adjustable backrest, like those offered by our my junior® models PICO³, PICO³⁶⁰ and PLIA². This allows you to adapt the buggy to your child's needs—from naps to upright exploring.

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The Golden Rule: When is my baby ready?

As soon as your baby can sit securely and begins to attentively explore their surroundings, the right time for the buggy has arrived. Now your little one no longer wants to just lie down, but to actively take part in what’s happening and discover the world from a new perspective.

When making the switch, ensure that the seat offers an ergonomic, upright position and that both the back and neck are adequately supported. This way, your child will feel comfortable and secure even on longer walks.

The very first outings are something truly special, both for you and your baby. The buggy opens up a world of new impressions, sounds, and movements, which may initially seem unfamiliar or exciting. Take your time with this transition: start with short distances and observe how your child reacts. Step by step, they will get used to the new perspective, gain confidence, and enjoy their newfound freedom more and more.

How to choose the right buggy

Which buggy is right for you depends on your daily routine. If you are often on the go and value compactness, the PICO³ is your perfect companion. It is compact, travel-friendly, and thoughtfully designed down to the smallest detail. Thanks to its minimal folded size, it fits easily into hand luggage, making it ideal for air travel or small car boots. The innovative AutoFold™ function allows effortless folding with just one hand: quick, intuitive, and absolutely practical for everyday use.

Its ergonomic seat with reclining function offers your little one a flat lying surface, perfect for relaxed naps on the go, while the large sun canopy with UV50+ provides reliable protection from sunlight. And because mobility also means flexibility, the PICO³ can be carried in three different ways: as a shoulder bag, suitcase, or trolley. Thanks to practical extras like a cup holder and travel bag, you’re always perfectly equipped and have everything at hand. No matter where your adventure takes you.

If you value maximum flexibility, the PICO³⁶⁰ is made for you and your little one. Its 360° swivel function with a rotatable seat unit allows for both: your child can face the direction of travel or turn towards you. This way, you can decide what’s best for your child in any situation. The all-wheel suspension and puncture-proof tyres ensure smooth rides on any surface. A real plus for your little one’s well-being.

Parents' comfort is not neglected either: a large shopping basket and a spacious storage compartment provide room for everything you need when out and about, from toys to the changing bag. The XXL sun canopy with UV protection 50+ and lotus effect reliably shields your child from sun, wind and rain, while the optimised ventilation with air vents and panoramic view ensures fresh air and a pleasant climate. Perfect for longer outings.

If you’re looking for maximum driving comfort and intuitive handling, the PLIA² is your ideal companion. All functions can be operated with just one hand, making everyday life much easier—especially when you’re holding your child in your other arm. The puncture-proof air chamber tyres and adjustable suspension ensure smooth rides on any surface, while the damping can be individually adjusted: from cobblestones to forest paths. The XXL shopping basket with extension function and the many integrated storage compartments offer space for everything you need when you’re out and about. Thanks to optimal ventilation and a large, extendable sun canopy with UV50+ protection, your child always remains well protected and at a comfortable temperature.

For those who want even more comfort, there is the PLIA² Air. With its air-filled tyres, it offers an even smoother ride on any terrain. Whether in the city, in the countryside, or out shopping. The PLIA² Air is the perfect combination of style, comfort and functionality, making your everyday life easier and more enjoyable, no matter where your journey takes you.

All three models, PICO³, PICO³⁶⁰ and PLIA², combine the highest standards of quality, comfort and safety. They are as individual as the families they accompany and have been designed with one goal in mind: to make your life with a child easier and more enjoyable.

Checklist: What to look out for when buying a buggy?

When buying a buggy, it’s the many small details that ultimately make a big difference. A sturdy backrest and an adjustable seating position are just as important as a secure 5-point harness system, which keeps your child safe at all times. You should also look out for good suspension and smooth-running wheels, so that every walk remains comfortable, even on uneven paths.

A fold-out sunshade and a well-designed ventilation system ensure comfort in all weather conditions. If you regularly use your buggy in the car or when travelling, a compact folded size and low weight are crucial. Washable covers make everyday life easier, and of course, the maximum permitted weight should match your child’s age and size.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions on the Topic "How Long to Use a Buggy"

From what age can toddlers switch to a buggy?

Please be patient: Newborns should lie flat in the pram (carrycot) from birth to protect the health of their spine. Only once your little one can sit up independently is it an option to make the switch. It doesn’t matter if this happens a bit later: every child has their own pace. The decision should be based solely on physical maturity.

How long can my child sit in the buggy at a stretch?

An important aspect is the possible negative effects on the back from sitting for too long. Even though the buggy is practical in use, don’t leave your little one in the same position for hours on end. Experts recommend taking a break after about 30 to 60 minutes so that the child can move around. Under no circumstances should the buggy be used as a permanent “parking spot”.

What do I need to pay attention to when making a purchase?

The market is huge and choosing can often be difficult. Pay particular attention to comfort (such as well-padded straps), weight, and handling. Unlike the rigid child seat in the car, the buggy should offer freedom of movement, but still guarantee safety.

Is a buggy suitable for travel and transport?

Especially when on holiday or using public transport, a compact buggy is worth its weight in gold. It makes transport so much easier. If you're unsure which model is right for you, we’re happy to advise you.

When is it better to do without the buggy?

As soon as your child can walk confidently or eagerly gets on the balance bike, the buggy can be left behind more often. This encourages motor skills. Only use it as an "emergency" solution when little legs become tired.

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