4 Tips And Reminders When Taking Your Baby Outdoors

Generally speaking, there's no need to keep a newborn baby sheltered indoors for the first few months of their life. While it's true that their immune system isn't relatively well-developed yet, babies can use a breath of fresh air and a bit of sun exposure for as long as you also bear in mind to follow some health and safety precautions.

The thought can be daunting, but soon you'll realise that going out is one of the best things you can do for your baby and your mental health as a parent . If you're already feeling overwhelmed, even with the thought of bringing your baby outdoors, we've got you covered.

Here's a guide with helpful tips and reminders as you take your baby out and about.

Take Note Of The Temperature

The temperature is the most crucial factor to consider when taking your baby outdoors. It can either mean too hot, as in tropical countries or too cold once the temperature drops as winter come along. Whether you're putting your baby in their stroller or carrying them in a carrier, you must prepare them for the outside temperature.

A good start would be to dress your baby appropriately. Keep them cool and fresh in light clothing if it's hot outside. You can skip the thick blankets for now. An Amacool stroller fan is also a plus if you know you'll be out for quite a long time.

If the weather is cold, dress your baby appropriately to stay warm. However, don't overdo it, as you could also risk overheating your baby. A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one additional layer of clothing as you are when it's cold. It's also when those thicker pram blankets
can have their day out.

Never Leave Without A Muslin Blanket

A muslin blanket is every parent's best friend. If you don't have a few of these, it's time to add more. Thus, never leave home without a muslin blanket. It's useful for many functions when you're out with your baby.

The most compelling function could be that of a stroller or carrier cover. If your baby is asleep in the stroller or the baby carrier, covering them by hanging the muslin blanket over the stroller cover can shield them from any distractions that could cut their sleep short.

Muslin blankets are best for this purpose, as they're not just the right size but the right thickness. It's breathable, so you don't have to worry about blocking their breathing.

Bring Toys For Your Baby

Young infants will mostly be sleeping, so there's not a lot of need to keep them entertained while you're out. Those at least six months who can sit upright can use a few toys. It'll keep your sanity well, especially if you know you'll take a long time with your errands or supermarket run.

The toys you bring don't have to be big, bulky or fancy. Soft toys that can be attached to your stroller work best. These are perfect for keeping your little one busy, so they don't get fussy after sitting too long in their stroller.

Always Have A Bag Of Essentials

There are good reasons why diaper or baby bags exist and why they're so big, roomy, and full of compartments. Those bags hold up everything you'll have to bring, along with the baby. Yes, babies come with many extra belongings, which you'll now have to get used to as a parent.

Bringing the essentials with you is critical to surviving whatever the day may bring, be it feeding, poop explosions, or a wailing baby. What the needs are can vary from one family to another; however, a few must-haves are:

* Formula milk and bottles if you're bottle feeding
* Nursing cover if you're breastfeeding
* Diapers, the quantity of which would depend on your day out's duration
* Hand sanitiser or alcohol
* Changing pad
* Baby soap
* Two to three changes of clothes;
* Accessories, depending on the weather.

To be sure you remember all your essentials, have them ready to go in a diaper bag, which becomes your go-to bag before you head out the door.

The Bottomline

Now with these tips, you could still be left with the question, when is it safe to take the baby out? Paediatricians don't have strict rules about this, as you can take your baby out as soon as you get home. Crowded places will still have to be avoided, but that occasional walks to the park, supermarket, beach, and town won't hurt. By practising proper precautions, those few hours outside will do wonders for the baby's mood, helping tired parents have that much-needed breather, too.