Finding the best stroller for special needs kids is essential if you’re a parent who needs help with making the world more accessible for you and your child. Many special needs children require support navigating while out and about, and as a parent, you need options that are convenient, sturdy, and moveable.
Our number one recommended stroller for special needs kids is the Kool-Stride Special Needs Stroller because of its weight capacity and all-terrain design.
If you’re looking for additional options, read below for our top 10 suggestions for the best stroller for special needs kids. We also put together a convenient buyers guide to help you decide which option is most suitable for the needs of you and your child.
Top Strollers for Older Special Needs Kids
Kool- Stride Special Needs Stroller
The Kool- Stride Special Needs Stroller is a great off-road option for a family that loves to get outdoors. It can hold a person up to 150 lbs, which makes it an excellent choice for special needs children as they grow.
We like that this jogging stroller was designed specifically with special needs kids in mind, a 5 point harness will keep passengers secure and safe and the adjustable seat is convenient for children of all sizes.
Kool-Stride’s stroller has a sleek design for outdoor adventures but would be a little bulky if you’re using it for walking around stores or indoors somewhere. Large bike style wheels are designed for all terrains while still making the ride comfortable for the pusher and the passenger.
A convenience factor is that the handle is extendable, allowing the person pushing to find the right height for their personal preference. A retractable shade covering is available for sunny days.
Kool-Stop’s patented Kool Fold system allows you to conveniently remove the wheels and fold the jogger fairly flat and small, allowing you the ability to easily store or take with you wherever your next adventure might be.
Pros
- Can hold up to 150 lbs, great weight capacity.
- Sleek design for outdoor adventuring, three sturdy wheels meant for all-terrain access.
- Adjustable push bar allowing each person the ability to adjust to their desired height.
- Patented fold system allows this jogger to fold flat and small, perfect for storing or bringing with you wherever you go.
Cons
- Great design for outdoor activities, would be bulky for indoor or everyday use.
- No built-in storage or cup holders.
Special Tomato MPS (Multi-Position Seating) Stroller
As a multi-positional seat, the Special Tomato MPS Stroller is a perfect solution for school-age children and includes a full tie-down system for safe and legal bus transportation. With a chair like this one, your child will be able to sit comfortably and well-supported throughout the day and across a variety of situations.
The Soft-Touch seat can even be removed from the stroller base for use in other indoor settings. Meanwhile, the base folds down into a surprisingly compact and lightweight package for convenient storage or transportation.
When in use, the hip angle, as well as the footrest, are adjustable to find that perfect fit for your child. Movable back and headrest cushions also help provide a personalized fit and allow this stroller to grow with your child.
Need the best of the best? Just look at this long list of “pros”!
Pros
- Accommodates kids up to 150lbs
- Includes tie-down system for bus or van transport
- Customizable support that can grow with your child
- Suitable for even the most complex medical needs
- Lightweight umbrella design folds down for easier transport
- Removable chair allows the seat to be used indoors apart from the base
- Latex-free, anti-microbial surface is easy to clean
- Hip-Flex adjustment allows for 30 degrees of natural range of motion
- Optional trunk support allows for use from 9 months old
- Adjustable footrest
Cons
- The most expensive on our list at over $3,000
Baby Jogger Advance Mobility Freedom Push Chair
The Baby Jogger Advance Mobility Freedom Push Chair is a popular pick of many special needs families. With an all-terrain jogging stroller like this one, your child can feel like a part of the family without having to sit out on any outdoor adventures.
From the removable front wheel to the adjustable canopy, many aspects of this stroller are fully customizable to your family’s needs, making it one of the most versatile options on the market.
Included accessories include a sun canopy with two clear top windows and side ventilation panels, front swivel wheels that can be used instead of the 16-inch jogging wheel, and a padded, reclinable seat with an adjustable safety harness for maximum comfort. There are also multiple storage options via the bottom basket and mesh pockets on the back of the seat.
Lastly, parents looking for a serious jogger will love the hand brake and the foot straps for the passenger.
Pros
- Holds children up to 200lbs
- Lightweight frame weighs just 30lbs
- Front wheel swivels for better maneuverability
- Upholstery is removable and washable
- Adjustable 5-point harness provides both comfort and security
- Includes ergonomic handlebar, vented sun canopy, and footrest with straps
Cons
- Bulky when folded
- Reclined seat may not be right for everyone
- Pricey
Special Tomato EIO Push Chair
Also by the trusted Special Tomato brand, the Special Tomato EIO Push Chair is the gold standard in special needs strollers. This chair can provide mild to moderate positioning support within a lightweight and convenient design so that kids are comfortable and supported.
The adjustable footrest, padded headrest, included hip and torso cushions, and adjustable seat back allow you to position your child in the most comfortable way for their unique individual needs.
Similarly, it is clear that caregivers have also been thought of every step of the way from the height-adjustable push handle to the undercarriage storage basket.
Need more support? Look for the optional Special Tomato liners or sitters for even more comfort and positioning assistance. Other accessories are also available.
Pros
- Padded headrest, torso cushions and hip cushions for optimal support
- Adjustable footrest + adjustable back for best positioning
- 5-point padded harness is both comfortable and secure
- All-terrain swivel front wheels
- Full canopy with parent window
- Adjustable push handle for caregiver comfort
- The entire seat is removable and washable
- Large seat accommodates up to 90 lbs
Cons
- Larger and bulkier than other more compact options
- A few parents reported that the wheels do not swivel as seamlessly as expected
Best Wagon Stroller for Special Needs Kids
The Creative Outdoor Push Pull Wagon Stroller is a lightweight, easily stored option, and it holds weight up to 150 lbs. This would work with younger special needs children, but if you are looking for an older and heavier child, then this may not work for them. Although more expensive, the WONDERFOLD W4 Luxe Multi-Function 4 Passenger Stroller Wagon is a little bigger and bulkier to store. It does fit up to 4 children and up to 280 lbs, which would be a good option if you are looking for an older child.
WONDERFOLD 4 Seater Stroller Wagon
The WONDERFOLD 4 Seater Stroller Wagon is a non-traditional stroller option that would make an excellent choice for special needs children. This wagon-style stroller can seat up to 4 children and holds a massive weight capacity of 280 lbs. Whether you are transporting multiple children, or an older, and therefore heavier, special needs child, this weight capacity is hard to find and a huge selling point.
All four seats have 5 point safety harnesses, and each seat can be easily removed to quickly transform your strollers into a wagon. If you have a larger child that prefers to ride in just the wagon, this can come in handy as well.
WONDERFOLD’s stroller wagon is designed with all-terrain in mind. The sturdy wheels and built-in suspension keep the ride comfortable for both the passengers and pusher. A one-step foot brake is a bonus for keeping the wagon safe when not in use.
While this stroller wagon might seem bulky, it easily collapses with a one-step folding design making it easy to set up and break down. A removable UV protected canopy is included to keep your child safe from the sun while riding inside.
Multiple different exterior storage pockets and baskets are available, allowing you to have space for your belongings even with children riding inside of the stroller.
Pros
- Weight capacity of 280 lbs, with 4 raised seats and sets of 5 point safety harnesses.
- Plenty of storage options for personal belongings.
- Designed for all-terrain, sturdy design, and practical wheels.
- Has a zippered entrance where kids can crawl in the back.
Cons
- Pretty big and bulky when folded up at 15.7 cubic feet.
- Fits in a van but not in a car trunk.
- Wagons are not always allowed everywhere whereas typical strollers are more universally accepted (ie: theme parks, stores, etc.)
Check out all the best stroller wagons to fit your family’s style.
Creative Outdoor Wagon Stroller
The Creative Outdoor Wagon Stroller is a roomy option for larger children who need a ride. A super durable wagon that can hold up to 150 lbs. A perfect option for larger children who may not like wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Creative Outdoor Wagon Stroller is designed with an adjustable push bar if you want to push like a stroller. In addition, there is an extendable pull handle, if you want to pull it like a wagon. All wheels are able to do a full 360-degree swivel. There are also built-in suspension springs allowing you to go off the pavement and still maintain a relatively smooth ride.
Creative Outdoor’s wagon collapses easily and into a very small compact size, much smaller than a typical stroller. It’s a great option to keep in the back of your car for outings when your special needs child may require a break from walking.
Other additional features include an opening rear door if your child requires extra legroom, or you’re using your wagon to carry oversize items. A removable canopy is also provided if your child needs shade. In addition to the canopy, there is a removable tray and cooler if you’re in need of storage or a space to pack a snack or meal.
Pros
- Option to push like a stroller or pull like a wagon.
- Super durable and holds up to 150 lbs.
- Designed to travel on all terrains.
- Collapsible and compact, convenient for storing in the back of your car for unexpected outings.
- A 5 point harness is provided and can be installed for riding passengers
Cons
- Wagons are not always allowed everywhere whereas typical strollers are more universally accepted (ie: theme parks, stores, etc.)
Special Use Strollers for Special Needs Kids
These strollers are options for different needs for your special needs child, depending what you are looking for. The Allen Sports is bicycle attachment that will work for up to 50 lbs, but you would want to make sure your child is able ride safely and securely. The Dream On Me can be used as a stroller, scooter, or rider that can hold up to 45 lbs, plus it is an Amazon Choice product. The popular Joovy Caboose is a double stroller that can hold two children up to 45 lbs each, plus has a standing option if needed. Another Amazon Choice item, the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a jogging stroller that holds up to 65 lbs with the option for your child to sit up or lay down as the seat reclines almost fully.
Allen Sports Bicycle Trailer and Stroller
The Allen Sports Bicycle Trailer and Stroller is an easy-to-use dual-purpose carrier excellent for larger children up to 50 lbs.
When used as a bicycle trailer it easily attaches and detaches with a quick release making it simple to navigate. You can quickly and easily convert from a bicycle trailer to one child stroller by attaching the front swivel wheel where the bike hitch connects, making it a convenient dual-purpose carrier. If you are traveling this is especially convenient for trips where you might be doing a combination of biking and walking.
A padded 5 point safety harness will securely and comfortably hold your child in place when using as either a trailer or a stroller. Large front and side windows will allow the child the ability to enjoy the sites around them. An included bug and rain shield can be added for protection or additional privacy to prevent a special needs child from becoming too overstimulated or overwhelmed in new settings.
This stroller conveniently folds with quick-release wheels for smaller storage or when traveling. The sturdy back wheels are similar to what you find on a bike and would make it an appropriate stroller for use off-road if you’re headed out on an adventure. Two small interior pockets and two larger exterior pockets in the rear are provided for storage of personal belongings.
If you’re an adventurer, we think that this stroller is a great option. The convenience of having one unit that can be utilized with a bike, or pushed as a stroller will cut down on the amount of gear you need to take on vacation, which is also a great selling point.
Pros
- Dual Purpose – Can be used as a bicycle trailer or easily converts to a stroller
- Comfortable 5 point harness perfect for securing older children
- Easily folds for transport or storage
- Large 16″ wheels, convenient for off-road adventuring
Cons
- Only has space for one child, max weight of 50 lbs.
- Trailers style strollers are not always allowed everywhere whereas typical strollers are more universally accepted (ie: theme parks, stores, etc.)
Dyno Transit Folding 3-Wheeler Stroller by Leggero
The Dyno Transit Folding Stroller is a 3-wheeled, all-terrain stroller that includes accommodations for those with more advanced physical disabilities and complex medical needs. For active families where a traditional jogging stroller won’t fit the bill, this stroller is a great adaptive push chair for daily use, travel or special outings.
As one of the few transit-ready picks on our list, it can even be used on public transportation or on the school bus.
Best of all, the Dyno Transit offers maximum flexibility with several adjustable features including: seat depth, seat width, lower leg length, hip angle, back height and push handle height. In addition, the adjustable tilt angle and optional supports will also help you configure the best positioning for your child.
If you need a comfortable chair that comes with all the bells and whistles, but doesn’t break your back to push or transport it – the Dyno Transit will be your new best friend.
Pros
- Maximum weight of 80lbs
- Lightweight & foldable despite advanced features
- Can be used for bus or van transport
- Ergonomic; helps support correct posture
- Comfortable for extended use
- Fully customizable to your child’s exact needs
- 4 options for accent color
Cons
- One of the pricier options on the market
Dream On Me Coast Stroller Rider
The Dream On Me Coast Stroller Rider, is our number one choice for travel. It is a super lightweight option that conveniently can be folded with one hand into a small compact size. Not much room is needed for storage, which is why we recommend this stroller for travel.
A great feature of the Dream on Me Coast Stroller is that it can be used as a stroller, a scooter, or a rider. All the options are great for children who need varying levels of support in different settings. If you’re looking to avoid the look of a wheelchair for your special needs child, this is a convenient option as well.
A five-point harness will keep your child securely in their seat. The small wheels make it easy to maneuver as you walkabout. The push bar can easily adjust, so if you have multiple people pushing the stroller you can adjust to their specific height and preference.
Dream on Me is a great stroller for keeping in the back of your car for outings or taking with you when traveling. You can purchase an additional connector to conveniently attach to any standard stroller, shopping cart, etc. if you have multiple things to push.
Pros
- Multi-purpose options to choose from: Stroller, Rider, or Scooter.
- Ability to fold one-handed into a small compact size for travel or storage.
- Comfortable 5 point harness perfect for securing older children.
- Adjustable push bar convenient for people of varying heights.
Cons
- No built-in storage options.
- Smaller plastic wheels not meant for off-road use.
- Only holds 1 child, max of 45 lbs.
Joovy Caboose Stand-on Tandem Stroller
The Joovy Caboose Stand on Tandem Stroller is a great two-child stroller option. Whether your special needs child prefers to sit or stand, this stroller has the capacity to offer both options.
Joovy’s front seat offers a 5 point harness and can be adjusted into 3 different positions. If you have a baby, the included universal car seat adapter allows you to install an infant car seat in the front with an older child riding in the back. A large canopy provides shade, or extra privacy protection, to the front, as well.
The rear seat has a lap belt with a bench seat, as well as a stand-on platform designed for older children. If you have a special needs child who likes to rotate between sitting and standing, the back bench is a great feature. Each seat can hold children up to 45 lbs.
In terms of two-seater strollers, the Joovy Caboose stroller is fairly compact. It can be folded easily for storage or transport. Joovy’s Caboose stroller features a large under-seat storage space to put belongings. No cup holders or organized parent storage on the handlebar is included.
All wheels can be locked or allowed to swivel. There is also a rear parking brake if you are stationary and do not want your stroller to accidentally take off.
Pros
- Two seating/standing options making this a great versatile option for multiple children.
- Built-in under-seat storage compartment.
- Compact size for a two-seat stroller.
Cons
- Not lightweight and requires two hands to fold and store.
- Some customers note that the wheels become very squeaky.
- If you’re using a car seat in the front, or have the seat reclined there is not much room for sitting on the back bench without feeling crowded.
Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller
The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller is not a specialty stroller but it can hold an impress 65 pounds and offers a roomy seat that will work for children much longer than a traditional stroller. As a jogging stroller, this stroller can move easier even with additional weight making it a powerhouse for parents who need to push a larger child.
For easy driving, this stroller offers forever air rubber tires with an all-wheel suspension. This means you can push with ease and your child will stay asleep even over bumps as the wheel will absorb the shock of terrain.
The stroller folds easily with one hand and it’s compact. Use this stroller with an infant car seat too for infants and then keep using the stroller for years to come. A five-point harness keeps children in safely and snugly.
An adjustable stroller makes for a more comfortable stroller and this one has an adjustable handlebar. A near-flat recline further adds to the comfort and adjustability.
You will want to buy a few accessories like a child’s tray and parent console but it comes with an extra-large storage tray capable of holding 15 pounds.
Pros
- Weight capacity of up to 65 pounds
- One-handed fold
- All-terrain wheels are easy to push and navigate
- Adjustable handlebars
- Extra-large storage basket
- Adjustable calf support
- Near flat recline
Cons
- Makes a lot of noise on the road
- Difficult to open for petite moms
- Heavy stroller
Best Umbrella Stroller for Special Needs Kids
The mid-priced G-Luxe is a lightweight stroller that has 3 adjustable settings to recline your child and holds up to 55 lbs. However, the more costly Maclaren Major Elite looks like an umbrella stroller but is designed specifically for special needs children and holds weight up to 110 lbs. It does not recline and sits upright.
UPPAbaby G-Luxe Stroller
The UPPAbaby G-Luxe Stroller is a lightweight modern-looking umbrella stroller, perfect for your everyday needs. A deluxe stroller that can hold weights up to 55 lbs, has a three setting reclining seat and adjustable footrest.
When folded this stroller will stand up on its own. This is a great feature when tucking away in a closet, or when you’re out and about. For example, you can easily tuck in the corner of a restaurant. When folded there is also a convenient carrying strap to help you carry over your shoulder.
Other features include easy to remove washable fabric, an extendable sun/wind shade, a removable cup holder, and spacious undercarriage storage for personal belongings. The rear wheels have a one-step brake to help you keep your stroller secure while stopped.
As far as umbrella strollers go, this is a superior option. Because it is not too bulky it would be great for getting out and about or for everyday use.
Pros
- Stands on its own while folded for easy storage.
- Undercarriage storage bin and removable cup holder.
- Lightweight and a shoulder carrying strap.
Cons
- Weight limit of 55 lbs.
- Wheels are designed for hard flat surfaces, not dirt or grass.
Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair
The Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair was designed specifically for special needs children. It has the look and lightweight feel of an umbrella stroller, but it can hold weight up to 110 lbs, which is an excellent capacity.
A removable footrest can be utilized, however, it does always need to be removed when folding. This stroller hardly takes up any space when folded. It is also only a mere 16 pounds, making it a great option to keep in your car for outings. A 5 point harness is great for securing your child while riding in the stroller.
Smaller wheels maneuver well but are not designed for many terrains other than smooth, hard surfaces. This stroller has a feel of an umbrella stroller combined with a wheelchair. If your child likes the feel of being in a seat, this would make a nice choice. The compact size is convenient for you as a parent when navigating stores or easy outings.
Pros
- Lightweight and super compact, great for storing in your car for unexpected outings.
- Weight capacity of 110 lbs.
Cons
- Wheels designed for smooth, hard surfaces, will not do well off-road.
- No built-in storage options.
- Seat does not adjust at all, fully upright at all times.
gb Pockit Ultra Lightweight Travel Stroller
The gb Pockit Ultra Lightweight Travel Stroller is a lightweight, budget-friendly travel stroller for kids weighing up to 55lbs. Parents love the compact folding design that can even fit perfectly into the overhead compartment of a plane for easy travel.
Although not specifically designed for special needs kids, the gb Pockit is an affordable and convenient option that can fit older and larger kids than most traditional strollers. Weighing in at just 9lbs, and easy to fold in just 2 steps, active families will appreciate the small and lightweight footprint of this sleek and stylish stroller.
In fact, this stroller won the 2014 Guinness World Record for the world’s most compact stroller.
Other notable features include locking swivel front wheels, parking brakes on the back wheels, a sun canopy, and padded handlebars.
Best of all, the gb Pockit can grow with your child thanks to a fully adjustable harness system.
In summary, while this probably isn’t the right chair for kids with moderate or severe disabilities, the gb Pockit offers many special needs families a small and affordable travel stroller to add to their ensemble.
Pros
- Very affordable at just over $100
- Extremely lightweight and easy to transport
- Offers adjustable torso length and harness system
- Fits in the overhead compartment of a plane
- Easy to navigate and maneuver
- Comes in a variety of stylish colors
Cons
- Weight limit of just 55lbs
- Durability may leave something to be desired
- Fixed positioning means no options for reclining
Best Jogging Stroller for Special Needs Kids
Lightweight and all terrain, the Joovy Zoom is pricey but holds up to 75 lbs, making it a great option for active families. The 28.5 lb but costly BOB Gear Revolution is a sleek, all terrain stroller for adventurous families, holding weight up to 165 lbs.
Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller
The Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller is a great option for active families. As far as jogging strollers go, this is a pretty lightweight option coming in at just 25 lbs. It can support children up to 75 lbs, and has an adjustable seat that can be used to accommodate children of varying sizes.
One feature included that you don’t always find in jogging strollers is a parent organizer with two cup holders and a zip pouch. There is also cargo basket storage and mesh pockets in the seat for additional storage.
As with most joggers, you will find the built-in suspension and sturdy tires. These are both helpful in creating a smooth ride even on bumpy terrain. An extendable canopy, typical of Joovy strollers, will offer added sun or wind protection to your child when in use.
While this jogging stroller folds rather compactly, it is still a larger stroller so be prepared for it to take up some space.
Pros
- Lightweight as far as jogging strollers go (25 lbs)
- Sleek design for outdoor adventuring, three sturdy wheels meant for all-terrain access.
- Extra features like parent handlebar organizer, running leash, and an included tire pump.
- Additional storage options, including mesh pockets and cargo basket.
Cons
- Larger stroller, even when folded it will require space to store.
- Supports children up to 75 lbs, average for jogging strollers.
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller is an incredible choice for the outdoor enthusiast. This jogging stroller is designed for on and off road adventures with mountain bike style suspension and air filled tires.
BOB Revolution Jogging Strollers can support up to 165 lbs while maintaining a smooth ride. The weight limit makes this an ideal choice for older children with special needs. An adjustable push bar can be changed to accommodate parents of all heights. There is also an attached wrist band so that you can rest assured that the stroller won’t get away from you while heading downhill.
You’ll enjoy that the seat can be reclined to support children of all sizes. A comfortable 5 point harness will keep your child secure, especially if you are out running. A UPF shade canopy can be extended for protection from the sun or wind and the back has a convenient magnetic where you can check on your child or chat back and forth.
If you’re in need of storage, this stroller has you covered. Not only is there a large cargo basket, but there are also 6 storage pockets. One of those pockets includes a cell phone pocket near the handlebars. When you’re ready to head out on your next adventure, consider this BOB Revolution Jogging Stroller. We know it will be the perfect piece of equipment to help accommodate your special needs child.
Pros
- Can hold up to 165 lbs, great weight capacity.
- Sleek design for outdoor adventuring, three sturdy wheels meant for all-terrain access.
- Adjustable push bar allowing each person the ability to adjust to their desired height.
- Tons of storage options, including a cell phone pocket close to the handlebars.
Cons
- Great design for outdoor activities, would be bulky for indoor or everyday use.
Special Needs Strollers Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| Kool- Stride Special Needs Stroller | 6.5 | 8.6 | 1,349.00 |
| Baby Jogger Advance Mobility Freedom Push Chair | 7.9 | - | 899.00 |
| WONDERFOLD 4 Seater Stroller Wagon | 9.8 | - | 699.00 |
| Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller | 9.7 | 9.6 | 429.97 |
| Creative Outdoor Wagon Stroller | 3.9 | 9.8 | 359.00 |
| Allen Sports Bicycle Trailer and Stroller | 8.3 | 9.4 | 183.16 |
| Dream On Me Coast Stroller Rider | 9.9 | 9.0 | 69.00 |
| Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair | 8.2 | 9.2 | - |
| Special Tomato EIO Push Chair | 7.9 | 7.8 | - |
| Joovy Caboose Stand-on Tandem Stroller | 9.7 | 9.2 | - |
| gb Pockit Ultra Lightweight Travel Stroller | 8.2 | 9.0 | - |
| UPPAbaby G-Luxe Stroller | 9.1 | 9.4 | - |
| BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller | 9.8 | 9.8 | - |
| Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller | 8.7 | - | - |
Buying Criteria for Choosing the Best Stroller For Special Needs Kids
Whether going about your day to day activities or packing up for travel, there is an overwhelming number of options out there for strollers.
Special needs children often will utilize strollers beyond the length of time their peers do. Some children have mobility disabilities and are unable to walk, or are unable to walk for long distances, others require the stability of having a place to retreat to when overwhelmed in a crowd. As parents, you may need a sturdy option for older children without wanting the look of a wheelchair.
Some of the factors we took into consideration when looking for the best stroller for special needs kids was a larger weight limit and room for bigger children to comfortably fit for longer periods of time. Storage for parents and compact size were also two important factors.
Design Style
When deciding what type of stroller is most functional for your child and your family, you need to determine what design will most suit your needs. The most common design styles you will find include jogging strollers, umbrella strollers, stroller wagons, and wheelchair style strollers.
If you plan to be outdoors and on bumpy terrain, a jogger style stroller like Kool- Stride Special Needs Stroller would be your best choice. In the market for something compact for travel? We recommend lightweight and portable options such as Dream On Me, Coast Stroller Rider. If you’re in the market for an everyday use style stroller, an umbrella style such as 2018 UPPAbaby G-Luxe Stroller is a great option.
Weight Limit
There are many reasons why a special needs child may require the use of a stroller longer than their typically developing peers. You want to choose an option that supports larger weight limits. In addition, you also want a stroller that provides enough space for an older child to comfortably sit for long periods of time. Typical strollers are designed for infants up to 50 lbs. Ideally, you should look to find something that can accommodate 50+ lbs. Again, this can depend on what style you are looking for and what amount of use you expect your specific child to need.
If you have an older child, teen, or young adult, there are still strollers that can accommodate larger people. Strollers may be more comfortable for longer periods of time than a typical wheelchair.
Level of Support
The optimal stroller is the one that matches your child’s level of mobility.
The strollers on this list cover a wide range of physical abilities ranging from mild impairment to more complex medical needs. Some children with special needs can get by with using a stroller that is simply designed to accommodate older and taller kids. On the other hand, children with severe physical impairments will often require superior trunk support as well as adequate head and neck support.
Your child’s occupational therapist or physical therapist can help make product recommendations as well as complete equipment evaluations to determine what level of support your child will need.
Extra Features
Additional features can be something as basic as a cup holder, to something more fancy like an adjustable handlebar. If you’re planning to be out and about with your child, storage is an important feature. Whether mesh pockets, a cell phone spot, cargo basket, or simply a parent organizer with space for your keys, there are a lot of built-in options to keep an eye out for.
If multiple people will be using the stroller, having an adjustable handlebar means that you can accommodate varying heights easily. While this feature is not necessary, if you are taller or have a longer stride the adjustability really does come in handy.
For your child’s comfort, things like an adjustable footrest, reclining seat, and sun/wind shade are all extra features. Most strollers are designed for extended use, so you want to make sure that your child will be comfortable. Particularly if you think they may fall asleep while riding inside, the extra padding or reclining ability is key.
A stroller that has a wide range of tilt or recline options is also ideal for children who require frequent suction or use equipment such as a G-tube for feeding. In particular, a stroller with “tilt-in-space” functionality allows the entire seat to tilt and is the best way to help caregivers facilitate feeding and other needs.
FAQs About The Best Stroller For Special Needs Kids
Does insurance typically cover special needs strollers?
In general, adaptive strollers and other mobility equipment should be covered by your family’s insurance plan. Since individual policies can vary widely, the best way to determine the specifics of your plan is to give your insurance company a call. For Medicare claims, parents can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) with specific claim questions.
Regardless of whether you will be using private health insurance or Medicare, you will generally need to submit a written statement or prescription from your child’s pediatrician or other doctor familiar with their care. This is to certify that the stroller you are seeking to obtain is medically necessary for your child’s condition.
With this in mind, it is best to avoid the use of the word “stroller” in your claim if possible. Instead, try to use terms like “adaptive chair” or “push chair”.
It is important to note that many plans have limits on the number of mobility products they will cover within a certain time period. In this case, families often opt to have pricier equipment such as a wheelchair covered under an insurance claim, and pay for less costly equipment like strollers out of pocket.
What is the advantage of a special needs stroller over a wheelchair?
Special needs strollers can provide better comfort and accessibility for outdoor events and family outings. They also allow kids to “fit in” and feel more at ease in public versus a wheelchair which signals their disability.
In addition, the use of a wheelchair outdoors often presents families with a number of logistical challenges that an adaptive stroller may help solve. Strollers are better equipped to handle various types of terrain, provide shelter from the elements, and offer a better experience for caregivers pushing over longer distances.
Could my child benefit from a special needs jogging stroller?
Jogging strollers help active families have an easier time on the go due to features like all-terrain wheels and advanced suspension. Jogging strollers also typically come with the reclining functionality that is so often used by special needs families.
Generally, as long as your child fits within the height and weight limits of the seat and can sit comfortably unsupported, a jogging stroller can be a great way to expand their world and provide your family with access to fun adventures.
At what age should a child stop using a stroller?
There is no right answer to this question when it comes to children with special needs. Strollers are designed to support children who cannot walk on their own, or for extended periods of time while maintaining comfort and support. As your child grows you don’t need to feel like you’re missing out on bringing them on adventures where a typical wheelchair would not be an appropriate accommodation. Whether your child is young or old, smaller or larger, there are options that can support them at any age.
Is a 5 point harness necessary?
Because many special needs kids will be riding in strollers as they get older, a 5 point harness is important. If you’re planning to be out exercising or jogging, a sturdy harness is definitely a necessity. Shorter rides or just a place for your child to take a rest, don’t necessarily require a harness. However, if you plan on your child riding in a stroller for an extended period of time, or if you are planning to use a jogging stroller for exercise or off-road adventures, we definitely recommend a minimum of a 5 point harness.
