After the birth of their baby, parents are exhausted, especially the mothers. While, at the same time, the family is full of joy and happiness and can’t wait to move around and share that bliss. On the other hand, parents often worry whether they will do everything right the first time. Taking your newborn out can be challenging for new, inexperienced parents but it is nothing to be afraid of.
One of the best pieces of advice and most important one we can give you is not to panic. Here are some others which may help you feel relaxed and comfortable on your first day out as a family.
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1. Make sure that your baby is healthy
The very first thing you should do before taking your baby for a stroll is to ask your pediatrician for permission. The doctor will examine your child before discharging you from the hospital, so that would be a perfect time to ask everything that comes to mind.
They can give you valuable advice, especially when it comes to some issues regarding city pollution or fluid intake. If you take a not fully healthy baby outside, their immune system can be compromised and you can make the matters worse. It is important to listen to the pediatrician and consult them whenever in doubt.
2. Pack the necessary things with you
Always have a bag with you with the necessities like diapers, extra clothes, and wipes. This baby diaper bag should include all the things that you need to keep your baby clean and well taken care of when outside. This bag will become your best friend, and you won’t go anywhere without it.
If you want to buy a super baby diaper bag, look for the ones that come with changing mat. This will save you a lot of trouble and eliminate one thing from the list of necessities to pack.
3. Prepare the baby for the first time out
Besides the diaper bag, there are other things to consider before taking your baby out. If the weather is warm, you should watch for mosquitoes. Using a net over stroller is a good idea. In addition, there are baby safe products you can use to repel insects.
When it comes to sun, make sure that you put the highest protection lotion on your baby’s skin. Never go outside without it, even during certain sunny periods in the winter. Use an umbrella on your stroller or cloth for additional protection. Baby skin is very sensitive and still developing, so you have to make sure that they won’t get a sunburn.
Another important thing, keep your baby hydrated. Always carry a bottle of filtered water or herbal unsweetened tea with you and from time to time, give your baby a few sips. Use the wet wipes or cotton towel to wipe their mouth when they drool.
4. Dress your baby according to the weather
New parents tend to overdress or under-dress their baby. This is nothing unusual and actually a perfectly common thing. It is easy to dress them when it’s winter or summer since you expect severe weather conditions. However, when it comes to spring and autumn, you have to think ahead.
Unpredictable weather means you will have to pack a larger bag with things that will keep your baby dry if it starts raining suddenly, for example. If it’s cold outside, dress your baby in long sleeves and socks. Also, hat and mittens are mandatory, as well as a blanket, at least put on the side in case it really gets cold.
In summer, cotton or other natural materials are perfect for baby skin since they will prevent rashes. Make sure you dress them lightly and put a sunhat on baby’s head. Some strollers even have the sun and rain protection so use that, too. You should stay with the baby under a retractable awning for shade or just stay inside if the temperature is hot. Avoid parasols since they can create even more heat and do not protect from the UV radiation.
5. Don’t overdo it the first time
It’s important not to overdo it the first time when you take your baby out. Everyone is still adjusting to the new way of life and you should do it slowly. Baby will take in all the stimuli from the outside world and some may even make them cranky.
Spend a half an hour outside the first time, and then day by day start prolonging to longer periods. This type of adjustment will be good for mom and her baby and allow them to get used to going outside.
All in all
Simply put, take it slow and don’t pressure yourself. Allow your baby and you to get to know each other and find each other’s pace. Don’t be afraid to take your child out for a walk a few days after the birth, and listen to your doctor and pediatrician. After a few cautious outings, you will start being more and more comfortable and sure in yourself.
Guest post by Audrey Taylor.
Audrey Taylor was born in San Francisco and moved to Adelaide at the age of five. Marketer researcher and social media manager on hold, full – time mommy of a cheerful two-year-old. Graduated from Queensford college, worked in a couple of marketing agencies across Australia, eager to learn more about business and share her experiences. Traveled across the Europe. Her hobbies include: home decor, fashion, travel, music, old movies.
Hey seasoned parents, do you have any advice you can add to this about those momentous first-outings for new parents and their newborn babes? Please share them in the comments!
New baby? Here are some great tips on taking your little one out for the first time! #newborn #tips #parents Share on X
Enjoy!