Dad's Diary: The KidMover 3000

hen our second child was born my wife quickly felt outnumbered when I wasn’t around. She was adamant that we secure a Graco Duoglider stroller insisting it was her portal to freedom, allowing her to go anywhere with both kids in tow.

She was right. For over four years, we’ve used the stroller several times a week taking the kids to the zoo, parks, the state fair and countless trips to shopping centers, eateries and community functions. We’ve even used it “off-road” a few times, though I don’t think that is encouraged in the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The stroller always felt a little big, but it worked perfectly for our kids that were steadily increasing in size. But much like that favorite shirt from high school, I woke up one morning and accepted that the stroller just didn’t fit anymore.

Most kids graduate from a stroller around what, age four? Well My Keiki will turn eight in a few months. It was time for a change.

I’ve actually found a stroller that would be perfect for My Keiki made by a company that specializes in adaptive strollers. Plus, I’m totally drawn to the idea of a device that we could go running with. My Keiki would love it. But if you look up the price, you’ll understand why I’m hesitant to get the ultimate “baby – no make that adolescent – pusher.”

Enter the KidMover 3000. I decided to take the phrase “adaptive stroller” literally modifying the Graco Duoglider to meet our needs.

First I removed the netting that hung on the underside. My Keiki had long since torn a hole in the fabric allowing him to rub his toes on the front wheel which was kind of gross on certain paths that are also frequented by dogs, horses, geese, etc.

Second, I solved the toe problem by cutting a board that slides nicely into the stroller’s framework, creating a new footboard. No more toe to wheel contact.

Finally, and with apologies to The Sister, I tore out the front cushion giving My Keiki tons of leg room. At first the support bar for the front cushion looked a little out of place, but now I just tell My Keiki he’s going on an amusement park ride and fold it back across his lap like a safety restraint. “Please keep your arms and legs inside the stroller at all times…”

So there you go – our adapted stroller. I’ve still got my eye on the Axiom, but for now, I’m pleased I’ve been able to create a solution that will last at least another year.