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After you bring a newborn home, you may be anxious to get back to your outdoor family activities, or at least get started exposing your brand new human to the wonders of the outside world. No doubt you’re wondering how soon you can venture out with your little one, and most importantly, how to be safe while doing so.
We have some tips on how to safely venture out with your newborn, and activities that the whole family will enjoy.
When is it safe to take a newborn outside?
Most experts agree that there are no set rules on when to take your newborn out, although some suggest waiting a bit before heading to dense public places like malls, movie theaters, airports and on airplanes.
One thing they do agree on is to avoid exposing your newborn to anyone who is obviously sick, as a baby’s immune systems is still developing and will have a harder time fighting off infection. During COVID, this is especially important to keep in mind. However, some point out that the social isolation that new parents have felt during the pandemic is looking to be a new kind of crisis, and that venturing out — safely — is beneficial for both baby and parents.
“Social stimulation from activities such as library events, meetups, playdates, during these more isolated months are important for parents,” Krupa Playforth, pediatrician and mother of three, told the Washington Post.
Getting ready to take your newborn outside
When you do decide to head out, keeping your baby safe and comfortable can be easy with just a little preparation.
Dressing for the Weather
Newborns are quite sensitive to both heat and cold so dressing them appropriately is key. A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby for the current weather and then add one additional layer. If it’s cold outside, prevent heat loss by covering their head with a hat and covering those tiny feet with socks.
In hot and sunny weather, protect their skin with lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and most importantly — keep them in the shade to prevent sunburn. In excessive heat, a diaper and a t-shirt or a onesie will be sufficient. Plan outings with a newborn for the morning or early evening hours to avoid temperature extremes,
Carrier with a view
Using a front carrier or sling with good head support gives your baby a window to the world from which to begin to make sense of all the stimuli their senses are taking in. Your newborn can learn a lot from the rhythm of your movement as well as sights and sounds of her surroundings. The experiences will begin to build cognitive connections to benefit your baby’s brain development, so getting outside is a win-win for everyone.
Be prepared
Conditions outside can change quickly, so be prepared. Wind can quickly chill your newborn and dry out their skin, so make sure your stroller has a weather shield (or keep them indoors during extreme wind.) Keep a backpack filled with extra clothing, blankets and supplies and make sure your cell phone is charged for an emergency.
Plan ahead
Again, be vigilant about keeping your newborn away from anyone who is sick. With this in mind, avoid places that are densely crowded by researching when the least busy times will be. Be mindful of travel times — experts caution against leaving your newborn in their car seat for longer than two hours, as being in an upright position for too long can possibly restrict breathing.
Oh, the places you'll go! Where to take a newborn
When deciding on outdoor family activities, think simple. High-adventure activities are still far in the future, but there are still plenty of things you can all do together.
- A simple walk in the park or short hike through a wooded area will give everyone some fresh air time to perk spirits.
- A trip to the beach to collect shells and put your toes in the water is another way your family can enjoy time together. If you plan to spend time just laying out in the sun, take a beach umbrella to keep your newborn in the shade.
- Stroll through a farmer’s market or have a backyard picnic — and don’t forget the baby swing.
- A short camp-out — in either your backyard or a nearby campground — can provide fun while keeping you at or close to home.
- Walk through an art museum. You’d be surprised how mesmerizing and calming it is for a baby, just being amidst all those Monets and van Goghs.
Remember, whatever you do your newborn is going to benefit from just being with you and being loved — so enjoy these moments. “At no other stage in your child’s life are you expected to do nothing more than care for her,” Carla Wiking wrote for Mom.com. “And perhaps that is at the heart of why I love it so much, and miss it already.”
