Anonymous
05/21/2013 04:24
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
Anonymous wrote:MB that you quoted here.
If I had already purchased/provided a perfectly reasonable/serviceable stroller and you just didn't like it, I'm not sure I'd readily pitch in to help you buy something that you liked better and would go with you to any other jobs you had/have.
I spent a lot of money on my stroller, and fair amount of thought went in to choosing the one I did (largely because we have twins) so I might be a tough sell.
That said, we have a fantastic nanny. If she had some sort of physical challenge where the stroller was uncomfortable for her and she needed one that was a better fit I would consider pitching in. But that sounds a little different from what you're saying.
So I guess a lot depends on your relationship with the family and their individual style. I'm not sure what you mean by "I plan to be active". Does that mean jogging w/ the child? Do they want/support that?
Also you said you plan to stay for three years - well the stroller will be pretty obsolete for at least a chunk of that time. My kids are already moving out of strollers for large chunks of time at 20 mths, so I'm happy to see the stroller's days being numbered.
I just reread your original post though and you said they only had cheap umbrella strollers and I don't like those for more than a quick errand either. So I can see why you'd want something sturdier.
Basically I think you need to talk to your employers. You can say "I'd like to have a more sturdy stroller to be able to be as active as possible. Have you ever considered getting another stroller? If I found a really good used one would you consider purchasing it?" There are lots of great strollers that are pretty gently used on craigslist or parents groups.
I'd try that route first. If they say no then you can always get one yourself (just tell them that you'll go ahead and buy it) and buy a good used one.
Does the child(ren) like umbrella strollers or not? I LOVED them as a kid, I vividly remember telling my mom as we were getting ready to head out somewhere that I would want that one. I loved the way it felt like I was sitting in a hammock, I much preferred it to a normal stroller unless out for a very long day. How old are the children? I think that makes a huge difference as well with the choice.
Anonymous
05/20/2013 23:55
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
Anonymous wrote:MB that you quoted here.
If I had already purchased/provided a perfectly reasonable/serviceable stroller and you just didn't like it, I'm not sure I'd readily pitch in to help you buy something that you liked better and would go with you to any other jobs you had/have.
I spent a lot of money on my stroller, and fair amount of thought went in to choosing the one I did (largely because we have twins) so I might be a tough sell.
That said, we have a fantastic nanny. If she had some sort of physical challenge where the stroller was uncomfortable for her and she needed one that was a better fit I would consider pitching in. But that sounds a little different from what you're saying.
So I guess a lot depends on your relationship with the family and their individual style. I'm not sure what you mean by "I plan to be active". Does that mean jogging w/ the child? Do they want/support that?
Also you said you plan to stay for three years - well the stroller will be pretty obsolete for at least a chunk of that time. My kids are already moving out of strollers for large chunks of time at 20 mths, so I'm happy to see the stroller's days being numbered.
I just reread your original post though and you said they only had cheap umbrella strollers and I don't like those for more than a quick errand either. So I can see why you'd want something sturdier.
Basically I think you need to talk to your employers. You can say "I'd like to have a more sturdy stroller to be able to be as active as possible. Have you ever considered getting another stroller? If I found a really good used one would you consider purchasing it?" There are lots of great strollers that are pretty gently used on craigslist or parents groups.
I'd try that route first. If they say no then you can always get one yourself (just tell them that you'll go ahead and buy it) and buy a good used one.
I am actually not the original poster, but was in the same boat. I care for twins as well and was also happy with the walking phase of their lives! We are close to a lot of activities and do a lot of walking, so I need a stroller for that. If we drive somewhere, the stroller stays home. We will also be going to the zoo, walks through the park with their older sister, children's museums, etc. That is what I meant by staying active. They have a tandem stroller that is not fun to push and I cannot imagine pushing that thing around the zoo for 3 years, let alone anything off trail! Do you mind my asking what type of stroller you chose. I am considering the BOB because I have a lot of experience with the duallie and it has great resale value if I chose not to keep it. There are definitely smaller all terrain doubles, but I don't feel that they hold their value, nor would I want to buy a really nice stroller until they are my children. Thanks!
Anonymous
05/20/2013 21:52
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
MB that you quoted here.
If I had already purchased/provided a perfectly reasonable/serviceable stroller and you just didn't like it, I'm not sure I'd readily pitch in to help you buy something that you liked better and would go with you to any other jobs you had/have.
I spent a lot of money on my stroller, and fair amount of thought went in to choosing the one I did (largely because we have twins) so I might be a tough sell.
That said, we have a fantastic nanny. If she had some sort of physical challenge where the stroller was uncomfortable for her and she needed one that was a better fit I would consider pitching in. But that sounds a little different from what you're saying.
So I guess a lot depends on your relationship with the family and their individual style. I'm not sure what you mean by "I plan to be active". Does that mean jogging w/ the child? Do they want/support that?
Also you said you plan to stay for three years - well the stroller will be pretty obsolete for at least a chunk of that time. My kids are already moving out of strollers for large chunks of time at 20 mths, so I'm happy to see the stroller's days being numbered.
I just reread your original post though and you said they only had cheap umbrella strollers and I don't like those for more than a quick errand either. So I can see why you'd want something sturdier.
Basically I think you need to talk to your employers. You can say "I'd like to have a more sturdy stroller to be able to be as active as possible. Have you ever considered getting another stroller? If I found a really good used one would you consider purchasing it?" There are lots of great strollers that are pretty gently used on craigslist or parents groups.
I'd try that route first. If they say no then you can always get one yourself (just tell them that you'll go ahead and buy it) and buy a good used one.
If I had already purchased/provided a perfectly reasonable/serviceable stroller and you just didn't like it, I'm not sure I'd readily pitch in to help you buy something that you liked better and would go with you to any other jobs you had/have.
I spent a lot of money on my stroller, and fair amount of thought went in to choosing the one I did (largely because we have twins) so I might be a tough sell.
That said, we have a fantastic nanny. If she had some sort of physical challenge where the stroller was uncomfortable for her and she needed one that was a better fit I would consider pitching in. But that sounds a little different from what you're saying.
So I guess a lot depends on your relationship with the family and their individual style. I'm not sure what you mean by "I plan to be active". Does that mean jogging w/ the child? Do they want/support that?
Also you said you plan to stay for three years - well the stroller will be pretty obsolete for at least a chunk of that time. My kids are already moving out of strollers for large chunks of time at 20 mths, so I'm happy to see the stroller's days being numbered.
I just reread your original post though and you said they only had cheap umbrella strollers and I don't like those for more than a quick errand either. So I can see why you'd want something sturdier.
Basically I think you need to talk to your employers. You can say "I'd like to have a more sturdy stroller to be able to be as active as possible. Have you ever considered getting another stroller? If I found a really good used one would you consider purchasing it?" There are lots of great strollers that are pretty gently used on craigslist or parents groups.
I'd try that route first. If they say no then you can always get one yourself (just tell them that you'll go ahead and buy it) and buy a good used one.
Anonymous
05/20/2013 16:36
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
, Would you or other MBs be willing to chip in on purchase of a new stroller? My thought was that the parents could pay a small percent of the stroller that I want and be able to use it themselves. I plan to stay for 3 years and would return their unused portion if i didn't. After our time had ended, the stroller would belong to me. Would you agree to that? Be offended? Their stroller is not easy to maneuver and I plan to be active.Anonymous wrote:MB here - if you felt a certain kind of stroller was more comfortable for you I wouldn't be offended in the least if you bought your own. I think that makes perfect sense, especially if this is your career.
Re the PP who suggested buying your own carseats, I wouldn't be as comfortable with that. I bought carseats for our nanny's car and if she'd brought her own I would have been concerned w/ age, prior use (especially if I knew they were a Craig's list purchase) etc... I think that if I'm asking my nanny to take our kids anywhere it is my responsibility to ensure that they have everything they need (seats, strollers, etc...). Providing carseats for her car, or an equipped car of ours for her to use, is my job.
But when you prefer a certain kind of equipment, other than carseats, for personal reasons (like your question about the stroller) then it's fine w/ me if you have your own.
Anonymous
05/20/2013 09:32
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
MB here - if you felt a certain kind of stroller was more comfortable for you I wouldn't be offended in the least if you bought your own. I think that makes perfect sense, especially if this is your career.
Re the PP who suggested buying your own carseats, I wouldn't be as comfortable with that. I bought carseats for our nanny's car and if she'd brought her own I would have been concerned w/ age, prior use (especially if I knew they were a Craig's list purchase) etc... I think that if I'm asking my nanny to take our kids anywhere it is my responsibility to ensure that they have everything they need (seats, strollers, etc...). Providing carseats for her car, or an equipped car of ours for her to use, is my job.
But when you prefer a certain kind of equipment, other than carseats, for personal reasons (like your question about the stroller) then it's fine w/ me if you have your own.
Re the PP who suggested buying your own carseats, I wouldn't be as comfortable with that. I bought carseats for our nanny's car and if she'd brought her own I would have been concerned w/ age, prior use (especially if I knew they were a Craig's list purchase) etc... I think that if I'm asking my nanny to take our kids anywhere it is my responsibility to ensure that they have everything they need (seats, strollers, etc...). Providing carseats for her car, or an equipped car of ours for her to use, is my job.
But when you prefer a certain kind of equipment, other than carseats, for personal reasons (like your question about the stroller) then it's fine w/ me if you have your own.
Anonymous
05/20/2013 08:29
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I have my own stroller that I use but my son rides in to school each morning and I dont want my bob wandering away(they offered me to leave it in the office or closet at his school) and I much prefer it to the ones the parents have.
they dont care.
When I drove to work I kept one in my trunk so I didnt have to lug a kid and a stroller all over again no parent ever thought it was odd :/. I also kept carseats in my car seats I refuse to drive any kid under 8 without one.
they dont care.
When I drove to work I kept one in my trunk so I didnt have to lug a kid and a stroller all over again no parent ever thought it was odd :/. I also kept carseats in my car seats I refuse to drive any kid under 8 without one.
Anonymous
05/19/2013 16:50
Subject: Re:Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I used to be a full time nanny and now just babysit for a couple different people a couple days a week. I bought my own strollers and carseats.
The strollers were from craigslist, I totally recommend buying your own, yes its your own money and theyre not your kids but it makes your life easier.
If you do a lot of walking outside I would go with something like the city mini.
if you go shopping or need to take a lot of stuff with you on walks I would go with something like a graco, large basket underneath.
The strollers were from craigslist, I totally recommend buying your own, yes its your own money and theyre not your kids but it makes your life easier.
If you do a lot of walking outside I would go with something like the city mini.
if you go shopping or need to take a lot of stuff with you on walks I would go with something like a graco, large basket underneath.
Anonymous
05/19/2013 10:41
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I was going to post this exact same thread! I cannot stand my family's stroller! I plan to be with them for 3 years and have to purchase a new stroller! I was thinking about buying the BOB duallie (because I know it is a smooth ride, just wish I could add something for an older kid to stand on) and asking them to pitch in $150-200 and letting them use it as well. Then I can keep it for myself or sell it and make my share back. I would love any feedback on that idea. Thanks!
Anonymous
05/19/2013 01:05
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I hate maclarens too.i have a mountain buggy double which works just fine with one kid an di just ordered the joey so i can grocery shop. The joey allows you to take one seat out an dput a grocery basket (the joey) in an dbring groceries home. I recently found a brand new water table at goodwill so i popped a seat out and picked it up with one kid in the other side and the water tble propped against the sun shade. It was great an never wiggled or fell out. The whole stroller is great, turns on a dime and light weight.
I also have an upp g lite which i like a lot as well.
I also have an upp g lite which i like a lot as well.
Anonymous
05/19/2013 01:04
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
Wait 5'6" is tall! Who knew
Anonymous
05/18/2013 20:37
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
Anonymous wrote:I was thinking about a McClaren quest do you guys have any other you recommend?
I hate McClarens. I step on the wheels, they're heavy, they don't do well on bumpy roads/sidewalks.
Anonymous
05/18/2013 19:01
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I was thinking about a McClaren quest do you guys have any other you recommend?
Anonymous
05/18/2013 18:39
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I brought my own used uppababy vista with rumble seat off of Craigslist because I hated the stroller provided. I use it everyday and plan to sell when I don't need it anymore. It was completely worth the investment in my eyes.
Anonymous
05/18/2013 18:15
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I've considered it before. Not a fan of the double stroller work has.
As for single or double -- it depends on your needs really. Do you typically watch one child or two?
One older child in a double by himself/herself is going to be harder to push than in a single. Not balanced evenly.
As for single or double -- it depends on your needs really. Do you typically watch one child or two?
One older child in a double by himself/herself is going to be harder to push than in a single. Not balanced evenly.
Anonymous
05/18/2013 17:15
Subject: Buying my own stroller stroller to use with families?
I am thinking about purchasing my own gently used light weight stroller to take with me when I watch people's kids. What made me think of this is, I took my two charges out and I hated there cheap umbrella stroller. Since I'm tall (5"6) I hated having to walk with my back hunched down with the stroller. It was also hard to fold and didn't look comfortable. I don't want to seem rude and insult the parents by asking them to buy a new stroller....Any thoughts? should I get a single or double?