I think "little one" = your child and not a passport card? If so, minors can't renew the way adults can and must meet with an agent - similar to an adult getting a new passport. Idk how these standards are set, but unless something changes, renewing online will likely be limited to adults.
Agree with your sentiments about the current process and hopes for improvement.
That and for some crazy reason my son who has had a passport since he was six months old, has to apply for his first adult passport as a brand new applicant. He has never had a lapse in holding a valid passport but since he's is now 18 he's a new person apparently.
brewdad|3 years ago