Imagine experiencing nature for the first time. Birds singing in the trees, the sun glistening through soft white clouds, the feeling of grass against your skin; the outside world is filled with new, exciting experiences for a new baby. However, even once you’ve mapped out your routes, shopped for prams online and prepared yourself for the exciting road ahead, it’s natural to have a little anxiety about the experience. As parents, we want our children to be safe, and taking a new baby out into the wild world of the outdoors can be kind of scary.

So, to help you prepare for your baby’s first outing, we’ve prepared a quick guide to ease your nerves. Let’s get into it!

How Early is Too Early?

One question that I’ve heard time and time again is “how old should my child be before I start taking them outside?”. While this is an understandable question, it’s also one that never seems to get a straight answer. That’s likely because, for all intents and purposes, there really isn’t an ideal waiting time. Babies can head outside at any time, however, it’s a good idea to cater your journey to your bundle of joy’s age with a double stroller for big kids.

Pediatricians will often suggest that you keep newborns away from crowded areas, as these areas can be rife with germs that your bub’s immune system might have trouble fighting off. However, with that said, precautions can be taken to keep your baby safe and happy, and the pros of doing so far outweigh any concerns you may initially have.

Weather Worries

A lot of parents will put off taking their baby out because the weather doesn’t seem quite right for it. However, as long as you’re taking the right precautions (and not going out in extreme weather) with a there really isn’t much to fret over.

On hot days, try to go out in the early evenings or the morning, as this will allow you to avoid the highest temperatures of the day. It’s also a good idea to dress your baby in light-coloured, breathable clothing and bring a spray bottle of cool water in case your bub is in need of a little cooling down.

Alternatively, in wet or cold weather, dress your baby in mittens, a hat, and several thin layers. Dressing your bub in multiple thin layers will allow you to take clothing on or off as required, ensuring that they aren’t stuck in uncomfortable temperatures for too long. Just remember, if winds pick up and you’re unable to shield them from the wind, it’s best to take them inside.

Is it Okay if My Baby Gets a Little Dirty?

Getting dirty is a natural part of life, and isn’t a cause for concern when it comes to your baby. As a matter of fact, research suggests that playing in the dirt can have a positive effect on a child’s immune system. This is because it exposes them to a wide array of bacterias and other microbes that their immune system can then adapt to. So, feel free to let them explore nature, even if it means getting a little muddy. Cleanliness and hygiene are still very important, especially for newborns, but a little dirt isn’t a bad thing.

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Being a new parent means being concerned for the safety of your child, it’s completely natural. However, that doesn’t mean that you should stop yourself from being able to step outside and get some fresh air with your new baby. The outdoors offers a wealth of bonding opportunities, and all it takes is a little preparation to keep your baby happy and healthy.