The front and rear facing pushchair have been the subject of recent debate for many new parents. These walkers are usually used for babies, toddlers, and children up to age three and four years. Using a stroller like this will all depend on the child’s size, and the parent’s comfort level. But by far, the vast majority of transport methods available for babies are strollers (the US name) and pushchairs/buggies (the UK name). The child can be placed in these vehicles, either in the forward, or backwards direction.
They come in a number of styles from the standard single seater which would provide a lightweight rear facing pushchair to those that can carry two children. The double buggies come as either in a tandem configuration where one seat is in front of the other or a rear facing twin pushchair arrangement. With the twin models, it is not uncommon to have one facing forward and the other facing towards the rear. Whether you opt for a twin or tandem model is often personal preference. I can say, though, from experience that the best rear facing pushchair is the tandem model as it is a lot narrower and is often better for pushing through doorways and moving around shops. Again it is mainly personal preference.
The notion of a forward facing pushchair is a relatively new trend, and twenty years ago, children were usually placed in a rear facing position. This was the traditional style in which the child saw the person pushing the stroller – usually the mother or father. Recently, the question began to arise, which position is better for the child?
Suggested books for many parents have stated that if the baby faces away, this is best for the baby. But past thinking thought that rear facing pushchairs were better, because the child had opportunity to interact with her parent. But recently the topic became one of specific investigation. Experts began to ask questions like ‘What is life like for a baby in a stroller?’ And what is the impact of the direction of the buggy in the parent-child interaction, and stress in childhood.
The first foray into this realm was done by by Dr. Suzanne Zeedyk. In her book released November 2008, she conducted the first survey of psychologists on the experience of children, and strollers.
The survey was conducted in the UK in two parts. First: a number of mother – child pairs were observed going about their day to day lives, on city Main streets, throughout 54 large cities. Social interactions were systematically documented and analyzed.
Secondly, a number mother-infant pairs were closely followed and monitored. The interactions between parent and child, and stress indicators were noted.
The research results were in line with the current state of knowledge. The report concludes that the children are progressing more when facing towards the person pushing. When facing the parent, the child is usually interacting with the parent. When facing away towards the street, the child can become emotionally impoverished, and isolated.
Why Are Forward Facing Pushchairs So Prevalent?
* Budget – These are usually cheaper
* Trendy – Some models come in a very elegant or funky style, appealing to modern mommies
* Lightweight – They are ideal for lifting into a vehicle or storage shelf
* Convenience – They are suitable for storage in small apartments, and the car trunk
*The Main Premise – Encouraging children to enjoy or benefit from seeing the world
Which Style of Buggy is More Beneficial for Your Child?
Findings of the studies suggested that smaller babies were twice as likely to sleep, when facing away from the parent. This completely contradicts he idea that these children will find it fun to see the world around them. Zeedyk suggests tentatively that the child’s sleeping may be evidence of stress caused by all of the stimulation and confusion the child is facing when introduced to the chaos of the world.
Children are more likely to be awake while enjoying the stimulation of their interactions with their parent. This interaction also seems to provide them with a more enriching learning experience as well.
The report also explains that children need to see the faces of adults to help them to understand the world around them.
Based on these findings it seems that a rear facing pushchair is the best option.
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