After nine long months of pregnancy followed by childbirth and rest, new moms are sure to feel isolated and bored at home. You may be yearning to go outside, get some fresh air and meet other people. But how do you do it with your baby in tow?

Here are a few tips to help you plan your baby’s first outing:

• Wait till your baby is at least two weeks old before you take her out. By this time, you should be getting used to your baby and you will have an idea of how to care for her and soothe her. This will ease the tension you feel when you go out with your baby.

• Let your baby’s first outing be to a place where she feels calm and relaxed. Crowded malls, grocery stores and noisy restaurants are sure to unsettle your baby. Go for a walk in the park or enjoy a picnic with your family.

• Initially plan for short outings and gradually increase the time you spend outside. Short outings will give you an idea of how to plan and what to expect when you take your baby out into the world.

• You wouldn’t want to carry your baby in your arms the entire time that you are out so get a stroller or sling. By placing your baby in it, you will feel more free and comfortable. Maneuvering a baby gear is initially difficult so be prepared for tension and embarrassment fraught moments, but once you get the hang of it, things will definitely be fine.

• Don’t go out alone with your baby. Try and get your spouse or friend or relative to join you so that you have someone to share the responsibility of looking after the baby.

• Dress your baby according to the weather. No baby wants to go out in the sweltering heat dressed in woollen body suits. If it is hot, dress your baby in something cool and comfortable. On the other hand, winter dressing requires extra care. Make sure your baby is warm and nicely swaddled.

• Pack a diaper bag. This is a must do for all parents. Take along several extra diapers, baby wipes and zip lock pouches for diaper disposal.

• When you pack a baby bag, include extra clothes for your baby, a bottle of formula if you do not breastfeed, a towel for spit ups and drools. It would be wise to carry along an extra change of clothes for yourself too. You never know when spit ups or diaper leaks can ruin your outfit.

• If you are breastfeeding your baby, dress accordingly. If you are formula feeding, take along a bottle of prepared milk or carry some formula powder and a flask of hot water along.

You may be tensed during the first few outings with your baby. After all, it requires lots of planning and preparation. However, after a couple of outings, you will find yourself enjoying the experience and handling difficult situations like a pro.

Jason Ladock

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