ASD and pushchairs

[SammyK]

DS is four, but fits nicely in his 5-6 clothes, and I often use a maclaren volo when we are out, more for behaviour than physical needs. For example he won't walk on 'fally' paths (uneven), is scared of machine noises, motorised wheelchairs and pavement sweepers, crowds, cats, I could go on . He is also quite clumsy, and falls over far more than other 4 yr olds, and is very upset every time he does fall meaning we have to stop and calm him down.

It is usually on a weekend I use a buggy as M-F I work from home and tend to stick to school runs and local shop. Often he begins walking and then goes in the pushchair when things get too much.

Trouble is he is now far too big for maclaren volo! AM I going to have to get him a major elite or are there other alternatives? And will I get any help towards the costs (think I already know answer to this one).

I dont think there are many prams that would be suitable for a larger child, unless you are wanting to pay a small fortune. Phil & Teds prams are quite large, my ds2 fits into one with a bit of room left and he is a tall 3.5.

You get the Maclaren Elite free through your health visitor. I have one that isnt being used at the moment, as I've just had a baby. Where o you live? I could borrow you mine to see if you like it?

Hi sammyK
ds2 is 6 & we have just swapped his mac major for a wheelchair. He has ASD but also mild CP.
tbh the need for a w/chair is 50/50 between physical & emotional need.
Speak to whichever professionals your ds is in contact with. If he has OT input they should be able to help or advise. If not any prof can refer.
If they agree there is a need, any standard issue chairs or pushchairs are free. If you want to upgrade to something else then you can often get vouchers toward the cost & you pay the difference.

DS' dx is still being dragged out ongoing, he currently has a community nursery nurse, HV, paediatrician, school SALT, and is awaiting a community SALT.

Who should I ask?

That's a really kind offer 5inthebed but I myslef am ridiculously anxious and I would worry constantly that we would break it. Thank you though.

DS' dx is still being dragged out ongoing, he currently has a community nursery nurse, HV, paediatrician, school SALT, and is awaiting a community SALT.

Who should I ask?

That's a really kind offer 5inthebed but I myslef am ridiculously anxious and I would worry constantly that we would break it. Thank you though.

Speak to your HV. Just because he hasnt been ds doesnt mean you're not entitled to one. You get them through wheelchair services.

SammyK, the pram is like a tank, its very unbreakable. Plus its from wheelchair services, so they woul fix it anyway. Ilive in the North East if you would like to borrow it.

Thanks that's good to know, I am actually trying to get in touch with HV as we missed our first 'meeting' visit before xmas, will try and call her again tomoro and arrange a visit appointment, and will ask her then.

Your offer is really kind, can I get back to you when I have spoken to HV? We are NE too

Not a problem. I'd rather someone use it, even if its until you get one yourself, while I'm not.