Guest written by Fay Smith, Award Winning Sleep Consultant and Franchisor of Little Dreams Consulting.
At around six weeks, many parents begin to feel ready to step outside with their baby, reconnecting with the outside world after spending time bonding at home. It’s an exciting moment, but it can also feel a little intimidating—gone are the days of simply grabbing your car keys and heading out the door. There’s a lot more to think about, but with some planning, you’ll soon settle into this “new” routine!
Why Getting Out Is Good for You and Your Baby:
Leaving the house with your baby offers more than just a chance to run errands; there are numerous benefits to spending time outside:
Fresh air and sunshine: Natural light and fresh air are great for both you and your baby. They help regulate your baby’s circadian rhythm and can have a positive impact on your mental health.
Socialising: Going out allows you to connect with friends, family, and other parents, which is important for your own well-being. It also gives your baby the opportunity to meet new faces and experience different environments.
Physical activity: Walking around helps with your physical recovery post-birth, as well as providing exercise (just be sure to check with your GP, health visitor, or physiotherapist if you have any concerns about exercising after birth).
Getting Ready to Leave the House:
Before heading out, make sure you have everything you need to keep your baby safe and comfortable:
Changing bag: Pack a well-prepared bag with nappies, wipes, a changing mat, extra clothes, bottles (if bottle-feeding), and a blanket.
Appropriate layers: Dress your baby in layers so you can adjust their clothing depending on the temperature.
Baby carrier/sling or pram: Choose what’s most convenient for you. Baby carriers keep your little one close and cozy, while prams are great for longer outings and offer more storage space for essentials like shopping.
Choosing the Best Time:
Timing is key when you’re heading out with your baby. Aim to go out after your baby has been fed to help avoid fussy moments. The motion of a pram or carrier can even help soothe your baby to sleep, so you might find it’s a good time for both of you to take a break!
Where to Go:
The park or a walk: A stroll in the park is a simple yet perfect way to enjoy some fresh air while letting your baby take in the sights and sounds. Just make sure the path is pram-friendly to avoid any mishaps!
Baby groups: Many communities have groups for new parents and babies. These are great for meeting others who are going through similar experiences.
Cafés: A café can be a lovely spot to enjoy a drink while your baby observes the world around them.
Shopping centres: If it’s a hot day, shopping centres offer air conditioning and plenty of amenities, making them a good choice for an outing.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Even with everything planned, you may encounter some challenges. Here’s how to handle a few common ones:
Crying and fussiness: If your baby starts crying, find a quiet spot to calm them down. You can try feeding, changing, or simply holding them. Talking to your baby helps with language development and keeps them engaged.
Feeding on the go: Plan ahead for feeding times and know where you can comfortably nurse or bottle-feed. Many large stores offer dedicated feeding rooms for privacy and comfort.
Nappy changes: Locate the nearest facilities with changing tables (many cafés, restaurants, and department stores have them). You can also carry a portable changing mat as a backup just in case.
Getting out with your baby can be a rewarding experience for both of you—whenever you feel ready. The first few outings might not go exactly as planned, but that’s perfectly okay. The more you venture out, the more confident you’ll become. With a little preparation, you’ll soon feel ready to enjoy the world outside with your little one!
If your little one is struggling with their sleep, please get in touch to book a free, and no obligation, chat to talk about working together so we can answer any of your questions.