Newborn and SN sibling buggy?

[Hangingbellyofbabylon]

I'm due in September and will also have 3 year old DD with CP to get around. So far we haven't found anything suitable for dd except the phil and teds sport which I don't really like anyway. Have just found this:mountain buggy. It looks quite good although ridiculously expensive! no way we could afford it at the moment. Has anyone seen one in real life? I've ordered the brochure so I can have a better look.

[vjg13]

No help about the actual buggy but would you be able to get any help with paying for it, say the cerebra grant scheme. I know they will pay for car seats.

[jennybensmummy]

or family fund?? or referral to wheelchair services perhaps they will realise you need something suitable for both kids? or maybe not? were still waiting to see them after a referral so who knows! i have a list somewhere i was given of charities etc that can help with funding for things, ill look for it and put it on here later if i can

[Hangingbellyofbabylon]

we're hoping to get a wheelchair from wheelchair services for dd to use when she's at school. Not eligable for family fund and most funding is means tested. (not looking for sympathy but on paper dh's income looks good as they don't ususally look at expenditure and the fact that I had planned to return to work as a teacher before I knew dd had SN). BDF newlife are really good for funding too but we are hoping they will fund silicone splints for dd and have already exhausted the local Lion's club and Round table with funding for dd's trike! I guess we'll have to have a think about what she needs most. And buy a lottery ticket..

[silverfrog]

I know you've said you don't really like the P&T - what is it you don't like?

Mine has been a godsend. I have dd1 (4.8 ASD) and dd2 (2.2)

I got it when dd2 was 4 months old, as I was hoping to be able to do without (dd1 is a good walker, but not always in the right direction ), and it has been brilliant.

If there is anything you want to know about it, please do ask.

[silverfrog]

just seen your post on the other thread - sorry, not meaning to hound you

[Hangingbellyofbabylon]

don't worry silverfrog! dd just didn't look that comfy and the seat isn't very deep. I guess cos she would have to be on the top seat with newborn underneath. Her feet kind of fitted on the footrest but would dangle if she got bigger and with her CP having feet on a rest is really important for posture. I so wanted it to be perfect but it just didn't feel right. I've ended up buying a real cheap (£30) normal tandem from ebay. I've decided that if it's not going to fit dd well then it may as well be cheap . And at least I have something in place. The OT also mentioned getting an ordinary double buggy then looking at a special supportive insert so I guess that could be an option.

[silverfrog]

I agree the seat doesn't look very deep, but dd1, coming up to 5 and easily the size of a 6 year old still fits comfortably.

The footplate is a real issue, i'd agree, but as long as dd1 behaves (!), her size 10s fit ok. They do dangle when she wants to play up, though, and as posture is so important, I can see your point.

the top seat bit (ie small sit fitted on top) would only be for 4 months or so (i skipped this bit, as was in denial over double buggy at that point ) - dd2 was ok in the rear seat (reclined) from 4 months ish

would a normal mountain buggy double do? how big is your dd? because the price of that SN one is outrageous.

I do wish they'd consult mums when they design buggies though

[5inthebed]

HBOB, mountain buggys are really good. You might be able to get a cheaper one off Ebay if you're not bothered about 2nd hand.

You could always put a "wanted" ad in pushchairs incase someone is selling one. I know there was one the other day for £150, but sold.

[Hangingbellyofbabylon]

I've just had a look on ebay and there aren't many in my area but it's worth a look. Think I'll try to find a shop that sells them so I can stick dd in it to have a go and then have a look second hand.

[5inthebed]

I have the same problem with prams. DS2 has a mac major and is far too big for a regular double pram even though he is only 3. The biggest regular double is a phil & teds vibe, but they are costly. Can't afford £500+ for one. If you wanted to try your DD in one for a while theserent them to you. Might be worth looking into?

[5inthebed]

Actually HBOHB, just had a brainwave. Baby Jogger City Minis are larger than P&T prams. DS2 is a large 3 year old (fits in 4-5 clothes) and easily fits in the single ones with lots more room. Someone is selling one on the boards here and its a bargain!

There is also a cheap mountain buggy going with carrycot, so would be ideal, but not sure if sold. You could always post to ask.

[jjones]

Mothercares urban detour buggy has a twin version and they have huge seats, my ds2 is a big boy and has tons of room in his. They are not that expensive and you can get even cheaper on ebay.