How To Keep Your Toddler Entertained In A Stroller

Whenever I take my toddler out in a stroller, I want him to fall asleep! It makes the journey easier, especially as he gets bored very quickly.

Some kids just straight up struggle to sit in strollers, even if it is constantly moving.

Here is my guide for keeping a toddler entertained in a stroller, with 6 excellent tips.

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How To Keep A Toddler Entertained In A Stroller – 6 Tips

Take a look at these 6 tips to keep your toddler happy and content in their stroller.

1. Make the stroller ride sound exciting.

Stroller rides don’t have to be boring. Instead, start trying to get your toddler excited for their time in the stroller. You can do this by talking about the stroller positively and referring to it as a place where they can play, watch the world, and relax.

Ask them if they’re in the mood to go outside and have some fun. Tell them it will be a fun adventure while they’re in their stroller. If you sound happy and excited, your toddler will be too.

For instance, you may say, “Are we ready for stroller time and lots of fun?” or “We’re going on an adventure today! Let’s get you in your stroller.”

Plus, doing this beforehand will prepare your little one for their time in the stroller. This means fewer chances of refusing to get in the stroller when it’s time.

2. Take toys along

When you have a toddler, the fresh air and outside views can’t always be enough to keep them happy. So it would help if you took along some toys to entertain your toddler when they’re bored.

The good idea is to keep a few toys exclusively for stroller time. Look for activity-based toys to keep your toddler’s mind occupied, like Play-Doh, magnetic color pads and puzzles, and interactive books.

One problem in this scenario could be your toddler dropping their toy on the floor and forcing you to repeatedly stop and pick it up. Of course, we all know how that’s one of their favorite games.

So, you can get some attachable toys specially made for the stroller. These toys will attach to the stroller, so your baby won’t be able to drop them.

3. Use your words and images.

Talking to your toddler and empathizing with them can go a long way. Rather than forcing them into the stroller and ignoring their pleas to get out, try and communicate with them.

While walking, have conversations with your toddler and show them different places. For example, you could ask them things like, “Can you tell me the color of that building?” or other engaging questions to make them curious about their surroundings.

You can also use silly sounds, sing their favorite songs, point towards different sights, and tell stories to your toddler. For example, one perfect game for stroller time is “I Spy.”

4. Keep snacks with you.

One great way to keep your toddler entertained and happy is to give them yummy snacks to eat in the stroller. It would be better to go for snacks they can munch on, like chips, nuts, popcorn, or chunks of fruit. It would be best if you handed them over to your toddler to keep their hands occupied. Just ensure that any foods are not a choking hazard for your baby.

Another idea is to keep offering snacks to your toddler, a little at a time. This is better for longer stroller rides as it will prolong their eating time.

Choosing the right snacks is also important. You should choose something they won’t be able to finish quickly. For example, put the snacks in cups or containers with small lids so your toddler is focused on using their little hands. This will keep their mind focused on the whole process too.

5. Give your toddler electronics.

Screen time and access to electronics should always be limited, but you can reserve some of it for your toddler’s stroller rides. Allowing your child to use the device only when in the stroller can also act as an incentive.

Electronic devices like iPads and tablets are good at keeping children busy. So let them watch their favorite cartoons or play games while you’re on the go.

This is one of the most effective solutions but not highly recommended. It’s always better to keep your child involved in their surroundings and enjoy the outdoors. But if you have a fussy and inconsolable toddler, you can let electronics come to the rescue.

Remember to place the electronic device on an attachable strap to keep it safe.

6. Try different routes

If you have a daily walking routine, it would be a good idea to switch up the route from time to time. Choose a different road or trail so your toddler can look at other sights. By exposing them to different environments and pointing out new things, you may be able to keep them entertained.

You can also turn this into a fun game by asking your toddler where you should go today. At this stage, children love feeling involved. Then, when they pick their destination, they are more likely to stay calm during the journey.

To make the stroller ride a real driving adventure for your little one, you can buy a toy steering wheel.