What is ShuttleCub?

ShuttleCub is a child transportation service in NYC designed for kids ages 6 and up. Kids (“Cubs”) are paired with trained, vetted escorts (“Bears”) who ensure safe and timely transport across Manhattan—on foot or by subway, bus, taxi, or rideshare. Bears are not drivers, but they are experts at navigating the city’s transportation options so parents have peace of mind that their kids get where they need to be, safely and on time.

What’s the story behind ShuttleCub?

After years of navigating head-spinning childcare logistics for her three kids while working full time, Charleen was all too familiar with the specific chaos of NYC parenting: child transit needs smack in the middle of the work day, siblings’ constantly conflicting schedules, meetings that run way over, and totally unexpected subway delays. Determined to find a solution, she teamed up with her friend, Martine–a fellow Upper West Sider with deep ties to their community–and together they created ShuttleCub. It’s been their unending mission to give NYC parents a new way to balance work and family life, so they can fully show up for both.

How do I know ShuttleCub is safe for my kids?

Safety is at the foundation of ShuttleCub’s mission. Every Bear goes through a six-step vetting process that includes interviews, reference checks, comprehensive background screenings, training, and trial runs. Bears are often students, artists, writers, or part-time professionals with flexible schedules, each selected for their integrity, dependability, punctuality, and genuine care for children.

During every run, parents receive live GPS tracking, real-time text updates, and photo confirmations, ensuring total transparency and peace of mind.

How much does it cost to use ShuttleCub?

Unlike traditional care options, parents only pay for the time they actually use. Standard runs start at $40 for the first 30 minutes, then $10 for each additional 15-minute time block. ShuttleCub also offers optional add-ons for an additional cost, including extended hours (outside of 8:00 am-8:00 pm), last-minute bookings (less than 24 hours before run start time), runs with multiple kids, and a subscription model for recurring runs.

Budgets for snacks, taxis, or car services can also be pre-approved by parents and are added to your invoice with receipts so you can see exactly what was spent.

Does ShuttleCub serve Brooklyn or other boroughs?

Right now, ShuttleCub is focused on serving families across Manhattan. That said, depending on availability, Bears can sometimes extend their services to the outer boroughs for specific requests. As ShuttleCub grows, there are definite plans to expand services more comprehensively into other NYC boroughs.

What makes ShuttleCub different from other childcare or transportation options?

Unlike babysitting services or ride-hailing apps, ShuttleCub was built specifically for getting NYC kids where they need to go. The service was created by local parents who understand the city’s pace, public transit system, and specific safety concerns. ShuttleCub handles all the hiring, training, and scheduling of Bears so families can skip the stress of managing and maintaining multiple sitters or escorts themselves.

What do other parents have to say about ShuttleCub?

The reviews speak for themselves! One mom raves, “As a parent who is extremely cautious about who I allow to be involved in my child’s care, I cannot overstate how grateful I am to have found ShuttleCub.” Another says, “As a busy working parent, having a reliable and trustworthy service like ShuttleCub has been an absolute lifesaver.” Parents repeatedly praise the high level of communication, ease of use, reliability, and the professionalism and kindness of the Bears.

When is ShuttleCub available? What are the hours?

Bears are available every day from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm—with extended hours from 6:00 to 8:00 am and 8:00 to 10:00 pm.

Can I use ShuttleCub for a one-off trip or only for recurring pick-ups and drop-offs?

ShuttleCub is super flexible, allowing parents to book as needed or for regular runs. Parents can schedule daily school drop-offs, weekly rides to an enrichment program, or even one-off emergency pick-ups when plans change.

Can I book a run for my child and their friends?

ShuttleCub allows a maximum of three Cubs on a run with a single Bear. This helps ensure the run is safe and manageable.

How do I book a ShuttleCub trip?

Right now, runs can be booked on the ShuttleCub website, but look out for a mobile app coming soon! It’ll feature in-app chat, real-time tracking, instant notifications, and more to make things even easier and more streamlined.

Bring a little calm to the drop-off and pick-up chaos by scheduling your first ShuttleCub run and, for a limited time, get 20% off your first run with the exclusive code MOMMYPOP20.

Photo courtesy of ShuttleCub