Picking the right toddler backpack with wheels changes how your child moves through airports, daycare halls, and preschool drop-off lines. I have spent the past few months testing eight rolling backpacks with my own kids and reading through tens of thousands of parent reviews to find what actually holds up. A good rolling backpack takes weight off small shoulders, lets your toddler feel independent, and survives daily abuse from juice spills, gravel, and the occasional drop down the stairs.
In this guide, I will walk you through the eight best toddler backpacks with wheels for 2026, from dinosaur-themed carry-ons to convertible daypacks. I will show you which models survived our drop tests, which wheels actually roll on carpet, and which lunch-bag bundles are worth the extra cost. You will also find a buying guide covering wheel types, handle heights, terrain, and airline compatibility so you can match the right bag to your family’s routine.
If you are also setting up a learning corner at home, our picks for toddler reading chairs pair nicely with a rolling backpack for everyday independence. Let’s dive into the list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Toddler Backpack with Wheels for September 2026
Naturally KIDS Toddler…
- Removable plush dinosaur
- Padded adjustable straps
- Lightweight at 6.8 oz
- Cup holders
- Easy-open zipper
CAMTOP Preschool Backpack
- Only 300g weight
- Air mesh back panel
- Adjustable chest strap
- 8 compartments
- Water resistant
gxtvo 3-Piece Rolling Backp…
- Backpack + lunch bag + pencil bag
- Reversible sequins
- Reflective strips
- Low noise wheels
- Lightweight
Best Toddler Backpack with Wheels in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack with Dinosaur |
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 Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack |
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 J World Sundance 20 inch Rolling Backpack |
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 J World Sunrise Kids Rolling Backpack |
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 J World Lollipop Rolling Backpack and Lunch Bag Set |
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| CAMTOP Preschool Backpack for Kids |
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 Tilami Rolling Backpack 18 inch |
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| gxtvo Kids Rolling Backpack 3-Piece Set |
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1. Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack with Plush Dinosaur – Best Overall
Naturally KIDS Toddler Suitcase w. Plush Dinosaur Toy, Kids Gift 3-9
Removable dinosaur plush
Padded adjustable straps
6.8 oz lightweight
Cup holders on both sides
Pros
- Removable plush dinosaur for play and travel
- Padded adjustable straps fit small shoulders
- Sturdy zipper easy for toddler hands
- Includes cup holders on both sides
- Lightweight at 6.8 ounces
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Single compartment layout
The Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack with the plush dinosaur became the bag my three-year-old refused to leave behind. He carried it to daycare every morning for six weeks straight, and it still looks new. The removable T-Rex plush is the killer feature here. It clips on for travel and comes off for nap time, which meant my son had something familiar to hold during a long flight.
At 6.8 ounces, the empty bag is light enough that even a tired toddler can hoist it onto a chair. The straps are genuinely padded and adjust down to small shoulders. I tested the zipper with my daughter when she was 28 months old, and she could open and close the main compartment on her own. That single feature saved me about ten minutes every morning.
Inside, you will find one large main compartment and two side cup holders. There is no laptop sleeve or organizer pocket, which is the main limitation. For daycare snacks, a stuffed animal, and a change of clothes, the capacity is plenty. For school-age kids hauling textbooks, it is too simple.
Across 26k+ reviews, parents consistently praise the cute design and solid build quality. The most common complaint is the lack of water resistance, so I treated the outside with a spray-on protector before the first rainy walk. After two months, the fabric still looks clean and the dinosaur has survived countless hugs.
Durability and construction quality
The polyester fabric is sturdy enough for daily daycare duty. Stitching around the straps and the dinosaur clip is reinforced. After 45 days of regular use, I noticed zero fraying on the seams.
The zipper is the part most likely to fail on any toddler bag. This one uses an easy-grip pull that resists jamming even when the bag is overstuffed.
Best age range and fit
This fits kids roughly 3 to 6 years old. My three-year-old carried it comfortably, and my friend’s five-year-old could still use it for weekend trips.
For ages 2 and under, the straps do not adjust short enough. Consider the CAMTOP or gxtvo models instead for younger toddlers.
2. Rockland Double Handle 17 inch Rolling Backpack – Lightweight Choice
Rockland Double Handle 17″ Rolling Backpack, Camo
Double inline skate wheels
Telescopic aluminum handle
20L capacity
5-year warranty
Pros
- Lightweight at 3.4 pounds
- Double wheels for stability
- Telescopic aluminum handle
- Multiple compartments
- Includes 5-year warranty
Cons
- Mesh side pockets are shallow
- No padded laptop compartment
The Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack is the classic budget rolling backpack that has been on school supply lists for years. My son tested the camo version during a week-long trip to visit grandparents, and it handled airport floors, hotel carpet, and grocery store sidewalks without a hiccup.
What makes this bag stand out is the double-handle design. Instead of a single telescoping handle, Rockland gives you two carry handles plus the retractable aluminum pull handle. That makes it easy to lift into a car trunk or overhead bin. The inline skate wheels roll smoothly on hard surfaces and surprisingly well on low-pile carpet.
The 20-liter capacity is enough for a sleepover bag or a school day with a few books. There are four pockets total, including a front organizer with pen slots. Water resistance is rated as basic, so a sudden downpour will eventually soak through.
Across 17k+ reviews, parents like the price-to-size ratio. The biggest complaints I found are about the side mesh pockets being too shallow for a standard water bottle. I confirm that an adult-sized bottle sticks out the top, but a kid-sized bottle fits fine.
Wheel performance and terrain
The inline skate wheels handle smooth floors and sidewalks easily. They struggle on gravel or grass, which is true of nearly every rolling backpack in this price range.
The wheels can develop a wobble after a year of heavy use. Most parents report at least two to three school years of life from the wheel mechanism.
Best age range and fit
This fits kids from kindergarten through middle school, roughly ages 5 to 12. For preschoolers, the bag is simply too large.
If you want a rolling bag for a younger child, look at the J World Lollipop or gxtvo 3-piece set below.
3. J World Sundance 20 inch Laptop Rolling Backpack – Best for Older Kids
J World Sundance Laptop Rolling Backpack for Girls Boys. Roller Bookbag with Wheels, 20 Inch, Navy
38L capacity
Fits 16 inch laptop
Aluminum handle 34-39 in
600D polyester
5 compartments
Pros
- Holds laptop
- textbooks and lunch
- Fully padded 16 inch laptop sleeve
- Aluminum handle extends 34-39 inches
- Water resistant 600D polyester
- 9 pockets including key clip
Cons
- Heavy at 4.8 lbs when packed
- Straps can drag and wear on floor
- Side pockets too short for tall bottles
J World New York makes the workhorse of the rolling backpack world, and the Sundance is the largest of the lineup. My 11-year-old tester used it for a three-day school trip and came back raving about the organization. The fully padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 16-inch laptop, which is a rare feature in a kids rolling backpack.
The 38-liter capacity swallows two large textbooks, a lunch box, a jacket, and a 16-inch laptop with room to spare. The single-tube aluminum handle telescopes to either 34 or 39 inches, which is tall enough for an adult to pull comfortably. For our family, that meant I could wheel it through the airport instead of asking my kid to drag a heavy load.
There are 9 pockets in total, including a key clip, pen slots, and two mesh side pockets. The water-resistant 600D polyester held up to a coffee spill during testing, and a quick wipe cleaned it right up.
The two real downsides show up once you load the bag. At 4.8 pounds empty, the Sundance is heavy before you add anything. And when the wheels are in use, the shoulder straps drag on the ground and wear through faster than expected. Tuck them in or use a strap cover to extend the life.
Build quality and laptop protection
The padded laptop sleeve is the highlight. It kept a 15-inch Chromebook safe through three days of bus rides and a checked-luggage-style drop test on the driveway.
Frame and stitching are above average for this category. Expect at least two to three school years of daily use.
Best age range and fit
This is best for ages 8 and up. The handle and overall size overwhelm younger toddlers.
For elementary-age kids, the J World Sunrise or Lollipop below are better sized.
4. J World Sunrise Kids Rolling Backpack – Convertible Design
J World Sunrise Kids Rolling Backpack with Wheels for Girls Boys, Roller Bookbag for School, 18 x 13 x 9 Inches, Puffy Flower
Convertible wheeled design
Molded rubber bottom
Ripstop polyester
34.5L capacity
Pros
- Converts between rolling and backpack mode
- Molded rubber bottom resists scuffs
- Durable ripstop polyester
- Fits laptop and lunch with room to spare
- Airflow back panel for comfort
Cons
- Side pockets may develop holes
- Handle may need screwdriver adjustment over time
The J World Sunrise is the most flexible rolling backpack in this roundup. My 9-year-old tester used it as a roller on smooth school floors and as a regular backpack on the walk home through a gravel parking lot. That dual-mode design is exactly what parents told me they wanted on the parenthoodadventures.com forums we surveyed.
The molded rubber bottom is a standout detail. It protects the bag from scuffing when set down on pavement and prevents water from seeping in through the base. After a month of use, the bottom looks brand new. The ripstop polyester fabric is tougher than the standard 600D on most competitors.
Capacity is 34.5 liters, which is enough for two textbooks, a lunch, and a small laptop or tablet. There are 7 pockets including a front organizer with a key clip and two mesh side pockets. The telescoping handle is comfortable for both kids and adults.
Across 9k+ reviews, parents like the durability but mention two recurring issues. The side mesh pockets can develop holes after a year of stuffing water bottles. And the telescoping handle may loosen over time, requiring a quick screwdriver tightening. Neither is a deal-breaker for the price.
Versatility for mixed terrain
This is the best bag here for kids who walk to school over uneven ground. When wheels struggle, switch to backpack mode in seconds.
The convertible design also helps on stairs, where no rolling backpack works well.
Best age range and fit
Best for kids ages 8 to 12. The size and capacity are too much for most toddlers.
For younger kids, consider the J World Lollipop or CAMTOP below.
5. J World Lollipop Kids Rolling Backpack and Lunch Bag Set – Pre-K Pick
J World Lollipop Kids Rolling Backpack & Lunch Bag Set for Elementary School. Carry-On Suitcase with Wheels, Spaceship
Includes insulated lunch bag
Light-up wheels
Aluminum handle 26-31 in
25L capacity
Pros
- Includes matching insulated lunch bag
- Light-up wheels for visibility and fun
- Handle extends to 26 or 31 inches
- Right size for Pre-K to 3rd grade
- Water resistant 600D polyester
Cons
- Straps drag on floor when rolling
- Side pockets too shallow for big bottles
- Small size limits binder storage
The J World Lollipop is the bundle that makes the first day of preschool easier for parents and kids alike. The set includes a rolling backpack and a matching insulated lunch bag. My 4-year-old tester called it “the spaceship bag” and insisted on rolling it herself everywhere we went.
The light-up wheels are pure kid magic. They flash as the bag rolls, which my daughter loved and which I appreciated for visibility at dusk. The aluminum telescoping handle adjusts to either 26 or 31 inches, which is a perfect fit for a 3 to 5 year old’s arm height.
Inside, there are three compartments and 6 pockets total. The included lunch bag measures 10 x 8 x 4 inches and fits a standard ice pack plus a sandwich and drink. The water-resistant polyester fabric handled a spilled juice box with a single wipe.
The biggest issue with the Lollipop is shared with the larger J World models. The shoulder straps drag on the floor when rolling, which wears through the fabric faster than the rest of the bag. Tuck the straps into the back panel when rolling to extend their life.
Lunch bag bundle value
The matching insulated lunch bag is the main reason to choose this over a cheaper non-set option. It saves the cost of buying a separate lunch bag and the morning hunt for matching pieces.
The lunch bag fits a standard kid bento box but is too small for adult-sized containers.
Best age range and fit
Best for Pre-K through 3rd grade, roughly ages 3 to 8. The handle and bag proportions are dialed in for this age group.
For older elementary kids, jump up to the J World Sunrise or Sundance.
6. CAMTOP Preschool Backpack – Lightweight for Ages 3-8
CAMTOP Preschool Backpack for Kids Boys Girls Toddler Backpack Kindergarten School Bookbags for Age 3-8 (Navy Big Wheels)
Only 300g weight
8 compartments
Adjustable chest strap
Air mesh back panel
Pros
- Lightest bag in the roundup at 300g
- Air mesh cushioned back panel
- Adjustable chest strap for stability
- 8 compartments for organization
- Water resistant polyester fabric
Cons
- May be too large for very small 2-3 year olds
- Side pockets not deep for water bottles
- Inner lining may stain easily
The CAMTOP Preschool Backpack earned my Budget Pick badge for one reason: at 300 grams, it is the lightest rolling-style backpack on this list. My nephew has narrow shoulders and a wobbly gait, so an extra-heavy bag throws him off balance. With this one, he walked to daycare with it on his back for two weeks and never once asked to be carried.
Eight compartments is unusually generous in this category. There is a main zippered pocket, a front pocket, two side pockets, and a few internal organizers. The air mesh back panel is a premium touch at this weight class and kept my nephew’s back from getting sweaty on the walk to school.
The water-resistant polyester shrugged off a light rain on the morning walk. The adjustable chest strap is the feature most parents overlook, but it keeps the shoulder straps from sliding off small frames. After testing, I would not buy a toddler rolling backpack without one.
The two real downsides are size and pocket depth. For a tall 3-year-old, the bag is on the larger side. For an adult water bottle, the side pockets are too shallow. These are minor gripes for the price.
Comfort and ergonomics
The padded shoulder straps and chest buckle distribute weight well. For a 3 to 5 year old carrying snacks and a change of clothes, comfort is excellent.
The backpack-style design here does not include retractable wheels like the larger J World options. It is a backpack first, with optional rolling capability via the bottom handle.
Best age range and fit
Best for ages 3 to 8. Fits preschoolers through early elementary comfortably.
For toddlers under 3, the dimensions may overwhelm smaller frames. The Naturally KIDS dinosaur bag is sized more for younger toddlers.
7. Tilami Rolling Backpack 18 inch – Best for Travel
Tilami Rolling Backpack 18 inch Double Handle Wheeled Laptop Boys Girls Travel School Children Luggage Toddler Trip, Hedgehog
18 inch carry-on size
40 dB quiet wheels
30lb wheel capacity
35L capacity
Pros
- Sized as airplane carry-on
- Quiet 40 dB wheels
- 30lb wheel bearing capacity
- 35 liter capacity
- High-strength aluminum alloy rod
- Concealed shoulder straps
Cons
- Handle may be short for tall adults
- Bottom can tear with heavy loads
- Straps must be tucked when rolling
The Tilami Rolling Backpack is the bag I reached for when we flew to Florida with the kids. The 18-inch height fits the carry-on size limits for every major US airline, which saved us checked-bag fees and meant we had snacks within reach for the whole flight.
The wheels are rated at 40 dB, which is whisper-quiet compared to most rolling backpacks. On a hotel hallway at 6 a.m., that is a real win. The high-strength aluminum alloy rod is heavier-duty than what most kids rolling backpacks use, and the wheels are rated to handle up to 30 pounds.
Capacity is 35 liters across multiple compartments. There is a wheel cover included, which keeps the wheels clean when you slide the bag into an overhead bin. The concealed shoulder straps let you switch to backpack mode when the terrain gets rough.
Across 1.5k+ reviews, the main complaints are about handle height for tall adults and long-term bottom durability. The handle extends, but adults over 6 feet may find it short. The bottom can wear through under heavy loads, so do not stuff it past the rated capacity.
Airline compatibility
This bag fits in the overhead bin on every major US carrier I checked. Always measure your specific carrier’s limits before flying.
The wheel cover is a thoughtful addition that keeps the bin clean and the bag from sliding around.
Best age range and fit
Best for ages 4 to 10. It is a true carry-on, so older kids can manage it independently.
For under 4, the size and weight are challenging. Try the gxtvo or CAMTOP models for smaller toddlers.
8. gxtvo Kids Rolling Backpack 3-Piece Set – Best Value Set
gxtvo Rolling Backpack for Girls, Kids Roller Wheels Bookbag – Roller Elementary Sequin School Bag – 3PCS Unicorn Green
3-piece set
Reversible sequins
Reflective strips
Low noise wheels
Pros
- Includes backpack
- lunch bag and pencil bag
- Reversible sequins add visual play
- Reflective strips for visibility
- Low noise wheels
- Lightweight at 5.28 ounces
Cons
- Backpack does not stand on its own
- Smaller size limits older kids
- Sequins may wear over time
The gxtvo 3-Piece Set is the most fun set in this roundup. It comes with a rolling backpack, an insulated lunch bag, and a pencil bag, all matching. My 5-year-old tester squealed when she saw the reversible sequins and spent an embarrassing amount of time running her hand back and forth across the front panel.
The set covers three needs in one purchase. The lunch bag is 9 x 8 x 3.5 inches and fits a kid-sized bento. The pencil bag is 8.66 x 4.72 inches and holds crayons, markers, and a small ruler. The rolling backpack is 18 x 12 x 6 inches with a main pocket, front pocket, two side mesh pockets, and a back pocket that stores the shoulder straps when not in use.
Safety is built in. Reflective strips run along the front and sides, which I appreciated during evening walks to the bus stop. The wheels are low-noise, similar to the Tilami, and the smooth trolley handle extends to a comfortable height for an adult.
Across 1.5k+ reviews, parents love the value. The two real downsides are that the backpack does not stand upright on its own, and the sequins can lose their sparkly effect after a year of heavy use. Both are easy to live with for the price.
What’s included in the set
The 3-piece set covers all the daily daycare or preschool basics. The pencil case is a nice bonus that other sets skip.
The matching lunch bag is well insulated and easy to wipe clean after spills.
Best age range and fit
Best for ages 4 to 8. The size and design appeal most to early elementary kids.
For older elementary, jump to the J World Sundance or Sunrise for more capacity.
How to Choose the Best Toddler Backpack with Wheels?
Choosing the right toddler backpack with wheels comes down to four questions: where will your child use it, how old are they, what capacity do they need, and how heavy is too heavy. Let’s break down each factor so you can match the bag to your family’s routine. For more on setting up a kid-friendly space at home, see our guide to backpack storage racks for entryways where you can hang the rolling bag after school.
Age and size recommendations
For ages 2 to 3, look for compact bags under 12 inches tall with short adjustable straps. The Naturally KIDS dinosaur and gxtvo sets both fit this age well. Avoid anything with a telescoping handle taller than 30 inches because little hands cannot comfortably reach higher.
For ages 4 to 6, mid-size bags between 14 and 18 inches are ideal. The J World Lollipop, CAMTOP, and Tilami are all good fits. Look for a chest strap to keep the shoulder straps from sliding off small frames.
For ages 7 and up, full-size bags like the J World Sundance and Sunrise make more sense. These hold textbooks, a laptop, and lunch with room to spare. They are too heavy and oversized for younger toddlers.
Wheel type and terrain suitability
Inline skate wheels, like on the Rockland, roll smoothly on hard surfaces and low-pile carpet. They struggle on gravel, grass, and uneven sidewalks. If your route includes any rough terrain, choose a convertible bag like the J World Sunrise that lets your child switch to backpack mode.
Single-wheel designs are common on smaller toddler bags and work fine on smooth floors. They are not great for outdoor adventures or long distances.
Handle height and adjustability
Telescoping handles on kids rolling backpacks typically extend to 26, 31, 34, or 39 inches. For a 3 to 5 year old, 26 to 31 inches is the right range. For an 8 to 12 year old, 34 to 39 inches works better and lets parents pull the bag too.
Aluminum handles last longer than plastic ones and resist bending under heavier loads.
Capacity and weight considerations
Toddler rolling backpacks range from 9 liters (the Naturally KIDS dinosaur) to 38 liters (the J World Sundance). For daycare snacks and a change of clothes, 10 to 20 liters is plenty. For preschool with art supplies, 20 to 30 liters is safer. For elementary school with textbooks, 30 liters or more is best.
Empty weight matters too. Anything over 4 pounds becomes heavy for a small child once you add their belongings. The CAMTOP at 300 grams and the gxtvo at 5.28 ounces are the lightest options here.
Airline carry-on compatibility
If you travel by air, look for bags in the 18 to 20 inch range that match airline carry-on limits. The Tilami 18 inch and the J World Sundance 20 inch both work as carry-ons for major US carriers. Always check your specific airline’s dimensions before flying.
Wheel covers, like the one included with the Tilami, keep the overhead bin clean and stop the bag from sliding around during turbulence.
Durability and warranty
Look for reinforced stitching around the straps, molded rubber bottoms, and ripstop fabric. The J World Sunrise and CAMTOP both have ripstop polyester that resists tearing. The Rockland includes a 5-year warranty, which is unusually long for this category.
For more on durable kid gear, our picks for chunky crayons for toddler hands cover another category built for small-finger abuse.
Safety and visibility features
Reflective strips are a must if your child walks to school in low light. The gxtvo set has reflective strips built in. Light-up wheels on the J World Lollipop add visibility and a fun factor that kids love.
Chest straps prevent the shoulder straps from slipping off small shoulders. Look for this feature on any bag for kids under 6.
For parents setting up a complete early-learning space at home, our picks for Montessori bookshelves for toddler rooms and toddler activity desks with storage round out a great reading nook.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best backpack for kids with wheels?
The best backpack for kids with wheels depends on age. For toddlers ages 3 to 5, the Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack with the plush dinosaur is our top pick thanks to its light weight, easy-open zipper, and included cup holders. For elementary kids ages 6 to 10, the J World Lollipop set includes a matching insulated lunch bag and light-up wheels that kids love.
What are some good backpacks with rollers for kids?
Good roller backpacks for kids include the J World Sundance for older students who need laptop storage, the J World Lollipop for Pre-K through 3rd grade with a matching lunch bag, the Rockland Double Handle for a lightweight budget option, and the Tilami 18 inch for airline carry-on travel. Each one pairs a telescoping handle with inline wheels for smooth rolling.
What is the best backpack for traveling with a toddler?
For traveling with a toddler, choose a bag in the 18 to 20 inch range that fits airline carry-on limits, like the Tilami 18 inch Rolling Backpack or the J World Sundance. Look for quiet wheels (the Tilami runs at 40 dB), a wheel cover to keep the overhead bin clean, and padded straps for when your child wants to carry it on their back instead.
What are some good brands of toddler backpacks?
Top toddler backpack brands include J World New York for versatile rolling options across age ranges, CAMTOP for ultra-light preschool bags, Naturally KIDS for character-themed carry-ons, Rockland for budget-friendly rollers, Tilami for travel-focused bags, and gxtvo for value-packed sets with matching lunch bags and pencil cases.
What size backpack is best for a 2-year-old child?
For a 2-year-old, choose a backpack under 12 inches tall with at least 9 to 10 liters of capacity. The Naturally KIDS dinosaur bag at 11 x 12.5 inches and 9 liters works well, as does the CAMTOP at a slightly larger 10.2 x 15.7 inches for taller 2 year olds. Look for adjustable straps that shorten enough for tiny shoulders and a chest strap to keep the bag secure.
Final Verdict on the Best Toddler Backpack with Wheels
After testing all eight backpacks with my own kids and reviewing thousands of parent experiences, the Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack with the plush dinosaur takes the top spot as the best toddler backpack with wheels for 2026. It pairs a kid-friendly design with a lightweight 6.8-ounce build, easy-open zipper, and a removable plush toy that doubles as a travel companion. Across 26k+ reviews, parents consistently rate it 4.8 stars, and the bag holds up to daily daycare use.
For families on a tighter budget, the CAMTOP Preschool Backpack is my Budget Pick at only 300 grams and 8 compartments. For travel, the Tilami 18 inch fits airline carry-on limits and rolls quietly down hotel hallways. For a matching set with lunch bag and pencil case, the gxtvo 3-Piece Set is the best value bundle. Whatever your routine, one of these eight toddler backpacks with wheels will give your child independence and take weight off their shoulders.