I love being outside in the spring and early summer. The air is so fresh, the trees are in bloom, and the grass smells so nice. When I had my baby, I worried that I wouldn’t spend as much time outside, but it turns out there are a bunch fun outdoor activities you can do with your little one.
Outdoor time is important for baby (and you!)
As a stay-at-home mama, I know how easy it is to stay inside all the time. You’re so busy trying to get everything done (laundry, dishes, cleaning, cooking, etc.) that before you know it, it’s Thursday and you haven’t stepped one foot outside, except maybe to feed the dog or check the mail.
I know life gets crazy, but spending time outdoors is so important for you and your baby. Breathing fresh air will energize you and give you a little extra oomf. Getting some sun will give you the vitamin D your body needs. And your baby needs to see, hear, and smell things from the outdoors to learn about the world outside of his home.
Safety first!
Of course, you must always practice safety when enjoying outdoor activities with baby.
Sun protection
It is extremely important to protect your baby from the harmful rays of the sun. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that babies under six months should not be placed in direct sunlight. They suggest dressing your little one in light clothing that covers their arms and legs and a hat that shades their face and the back of their neck. They state that sunscreen of at least SPF 15 is okay for babies under six months in small areas, like the cheeks and backs of the hands.
Hydration
If your baby is still small, chances are you are still breast or bottle feeding and aren’t yet giving him water. When enjoying outdoor activities with baby, make sure you are nursing or giving formula frequently so he stays hydrated.
Overheating
Watch your baby carefully to avoid overheating. Touch his cheeks to make sure he’s a good temperature and stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Keep a clean cloth and fingertip spray bottle in your diaper bag so you can apply something cool and damp to baby’s face if need be.
5 fun outdoor activities with baby that you’ll enjoy, too
Here’s the fun part! Try these outdoor activities with baby and see how much you both enjoy the time in the fresh air and sunshine.
1. Visit the park
Our first outdoor activity is an oldy but a goody. Take your little one to your nearest city park. We live within walking distance from a lovely little park and it’s so fun to take Little Man out there. We normally take at least one of our dogs with us and it’s always a great time. I don’t take the dogs when it’s just me and Little Man, though. They can get super excited and the last thing I need is one of them getting off-leash when I have the baby.
The park is nice because it can be as short or long of a trip as you want it to be. Sometimes you just want a little fresh air, so it’s a quick outing. Other times, it can be an all-day event, complete with a picnic. It’s up to you!
2. Take a trip to the zoo or botanical gardens
If your town (or one nearby) has a zoo or botanical gardens, take advantage of it. We are blessed to have both in our town and they are absolutely fantastic. It’s best to go to the zoo in the morning because many of the animals won’t be out during the hot afternoon. We like to take a picnic lunch and enjoy eating under the shade. Most babies like to look at animals, so be prepared for some major excitement from your little one.
3. Go swimming
BabyCenter states that you can start parent-child swim classes at six months of age. Little Man turned six months in June, and I did mommy-and-me swim lessons. It was so much fun, and I’m so glad he’s learning to be comfortable in the water. Talk to your child’s pediatrician before starting any water activities. Of course, keep your hands on baby at all times and never, ever leave him alone in any amount of water for even a minute.
4. Try gardening
Gardening is a great outdoor activity for you and your baby, not to mention beneficial for your entire family. Obviously, your baby can’t help too much if he’s really little, but just being outside with you is exciting and good for him. Spread an old, clean blanket out on the grass or soil near you and let baby hang out while you work. Be sure to keep an eye out for bugs and bees. You can also bring your playpen outside if you aren’t comfortable with baby being on the ground.
Depending on what you plant, your family can enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables all summer. As you start introducing solid foods in baby’s diet, you can even give him a taste of your harvest!
5. Break out the bubbles
I don’t know a single kid who doesn’t enjoy bubbles. Babies are no exception! Little Man is at a fantastic age where everything is interesting to him, especially things that move. He is fascinated with bubbles and can’t seem to get enough of them. Sit baby on a blanket in a shady spot and just go crazy with the bubbles. It will be a blast for both of you (don’t forget to take pictures!).
Get out and enjoy these outdoor activities with baby!
Just because your baby is small doesn’t mean you have to stay inside all day. There are many enjoyable outdoor activities with baby! Be sure to practice smart safety as you enjoy your time outside. You and your baby will both be invigorated as you breathe in that fresh air and soak in that sunshine.
What outdoor activities do you enjoy with your baby? Let us know in the comments!
For another fun activity, check out my post How to Have Fun Finger Painting with Your Baby – With Less Mess!
