As a new mom, getting out of the house with a newborn or a baby can be challenging, and may even seem impossible. But once you’ve gotten the mom routine at home down, it’s important on so many levels to get out and stay active and social. We’re social beings! Even if you are an introvert like me–it’s important to see, experience and feel new things every now and then.
It’s not just good for your baby to have new experiences, it’s also really important for you to get out and feel like a human again! Trust me, it can be done.
First, have reasonable expectations: don’t try too much, or expect too much.
Tips to make your baby outing more successful
Plan ahead
Make sure you have everything you need before you leave the house. Pack extra diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes for your baby, as well as any nursing supplies you might need, including water and a snack for yourself. It never fails that baby has a blowout the minute you leave the house! It’s going to happen. Be prepared for it.
Time it right
Try to time your outing for after your baby has been fed and has had a nap, or can nap in the car. This will increase the likelihood that your baby will be content while you’re out. Babies often fall asleep while driving, so use this to your advantage.
Be prepared for the weather
Dress your baby appropriately for the weather and pack extra layers in case it gets cooler. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, or a light gauze blanket to use as a cover.
Bring a stroller or carrier
A stroller or carrier will make it easier for you to get around with your baby. Make sure it’s comfortable for both you and your baby and that you know how to use it before you go out. Practice any baby carrier or sling or wrap at the house first, and make sure your baby is somewhat used to it.
Choose your destination wisely
Opt for places that are baby-friendly, such as parks, coffee shops, or family-friendly restaurants. Avoid crowded places or events that might overstimulate your baby, or be too noisy or startling like rock concerts.
Don’t be afraid to say no
If you feel overwhelmed or your baby is fussy, don’t be afraid to cut your outing short or reschedule for another time.
Here is a list of some fun activities you can enjoy with your little one:
Sit in the shade at a park
When I had my first, we lived walking distance to the neighborhood park. I grabbed a blanket and brought my newborn to lay on a blanket in the shade and I was mesmerized watching my little one be mesmerized by mother nature. The gentle wind breezes, the dancing leaves, the chirping sounds coming from the tree above–it was all the right amount of gentle stimulation that newborns really love and appreciate. Like everyone else, babies get bored inside! Going out on a nice sunny day and sitting in the shade doesn’t have to be complicated. It is the perfect outing for a new mom. If you don’t live near a park, bring your diaper bag with you, chock full of what you would need for the hour or so you may be relaxing on a blanket with your baby taking a million pictures!
Stroll through a botanical garden
Many botanical gardens have paved walkways that are stroller-friendly and provide a peaceful place to enjoy nature with your baby. Many of them also have shaded areas. This is a great outing if you have more than one child, so older children will love exploring around the gardens, and get some exercise too. Plus, so many photo opportunities!
Walk to the grocery store or craft store
Babies also don’t like staying home all day, and you may have a baby who fusses in the car or carseat. Grab the stroller, and a baby carrier if some cuddle time is what baby wants, and walk to any stores that are walking distance to your house. The stroller comes in handy as a shopping cart (because you can’t juggle both) and the new sights and sounds may be just the right amount of entertainment for your little one. I really loved living walking distance to a few shopping centers and even just going to the store for one item gives you a little exercise and gives the baby fresh air, sights, and sounds that help those neural pathways.
Take a baby swim class
Many community centers and YMCAs offer parent and me baby swim classes, which can help your baby develop coordination and strengthen their muscles. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your little one in the water. Think how fun it would be to buy a teeny tiny bathing suit! Just make sure to get swim diapers.
Walk around a mall or shopping center
More and more destination shopping centers or malls have nursing stations and baby care rooms, which are like extra large bathrooms with nursing chairs and changing tables, making leaving the house a breeze! Look to the larger malls, and shopping destinations, and even theme parks, to have these features. Disneyland has a great one! Shopping centers have a great mix of things to look at but also restaurants and places to relax and sit and people watch.
Visit a petting zoo or farm
I remember my first outing as a mom of two, I brought my toddler and newborn to a little farm near me that had some animals we could look at and vegetation we could walk around. I parked the car, got the baby in my sling, got my toddler out and started walking through the gate and phlkrrrrkkkkkkk. Baby had a blowout while I was wearing her in a sling. We turned ourselves right around, walked back to the car, and I had to change her in the trunk and keep my toddler occupied too, which was no easy feat. Guess what? We all survived. It is a story to tell. I basically knew it would happen, and that’s life. We still went in to the farm after everyone got cleaned up, and had a really pleasant time. It can be frazzling–but you got this!
Attend a mommy-and-me yoga class
Many yoga studios offer classes specifically for new moms and babies, where you can practice gentle yoga poses together. It’s a great way to get some exercise while bonding with your little one and also make some new friends. Making mom friends is part of being a mom, this is your community. Reach out and don’t be afraid to ask for someones phone number if they have a baby close to your baby’s age. It’s really fun to let the babies play and grow up together.
Join a parent-baby playgroup
Meeting other parents with babies can be a great way to socialize and share experiences. Look for local parent-baby playgroups in your area, or start one of your own. Sometimes baby boutiques in your area have playgroups, or playtimes that are open to new parents. Look for a store in your area and see if they have meet-ups or events.
Also, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with other moms with babies around the same age as yours and exchange phone numbers. I made a mom friend at Living Spaces, and we ended up celebrating several birthdays together and watching our little ones grow side by side for several years.
Visit a museum with a baby-friendly exhibit
Many museums have exhibits designed specifically for children, including babies. Look for a Children’s Museum in your area. These are great places to visit and even get a membership if you have one or more children who would benefit from the interactive exhibits.
- Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana
- Boston Children’s Museum – Boston, Massachusetts
- The Children’s Museum of Houston – Houston, Texas
- Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose – San Jose, California
- Please Touch Museum – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- National Museum of Play at The Strong – Rochester, New York
- The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus – Denver, Colorado
- Minnesota Children’s Museum – St. Paul, Minnesota
- Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Madison Children’s Museum – Madison, Wisconsin
- The New Children’s Museum – San Diego, California
- San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum – San Diego, California
- Kidspace Children’s Museum – Los Angeles, California
- Pretend City Children’s Museum – Irvine, California
- Discovery Cube Orange County – Santa Ana, California
- Children’s Museum at La Habra – La Habra, California
Go on a nature walk with a baby carrier
If you’re feeling up for a little exercise, strap your baby into a carrier or in the stroller, and go for a nature walk. Many state and national parks have trails that are stroller- and baby carrier-friendly. It’s a great way to get some exercise, some vitamin D, and also spending time in nature helps us to feel happier, and more connected.
Attend a baby storytime at the library
Many public libraries offer storytimes for babies and toddlers, where you can enjoy books and rhymes together with your little one. These are great little playtime experiences for little ones to socialize, and get mentally prepared for pre-school or learning environments. Many libraries also have hands on activities or craft classes for little ones too. Check out your local library to see if they offer this option.
Visit an aquarium
Watching fish swim can be mesmerizing for babies and adults alike. Aquariums are often dimly lit, and relaxing places that calm fussy babies, and active toddlers. Aquariums are extremely kid-friendly places, with wide walkways for strollers, diaper bags and all the items you will need. Babies love seeing and watching other kids, so this is also a great people-watching experience for your little one, in addition to all the sea life. Check out local aquariums in your area.
Attend a baby sign language class
Learning sign language can help you communicate with your baby before they start talking. By using simple gestures such as “more,” “all done,” and “milk,” babies as young as six months old can effectively communicate with their caregivers. Research has shown that using baby sign language can lead to earlier language development, increased cognitive development, and improved parent-child communication. Look for classes like Baby Signs in your area.
Farmer’s market
Taking your baby to a local farmer’s market can be a great way to get outside, explore new foods, and support local farmers. Plus, the colorful sights and sounds can be stimulating for your little one. Some farmer’s markets have live music, or other forms of entertainment, but notoriously don’t have public restrooms, so be prepared, or for-warned, if you have a toddler in potty training.
Pumpkin Patch
Depending on the time of year, walking around a pumpkin patch (or a Christmas tree farm) with your little one is a great way to spend time outdoors. Pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms often have many great spots for photo taking opportunities which make great mementos of your time as a family.
Embarking on fun activities with your baby can be an exciting and fulfilling experience for new moms. Whether it’s a trip to the park, a visit to a local museum, or a leisurely stroll in a botanical garden, there are endless possibilities for creating cherished memories and nurturing your baby’s development. Remember to prioritize your baby’s safety, comfort, and well-being throughout your outings, and don’t forget to savor these precious moments together. These baby outing ideas provide an opportunity for you to bond with your little one, explore the world around you, and embrace the joys of motherhood. Enjoy this special time with your baby and cherish the memories you create along the way.