Getting Out and About With Baby

Getting out and about with baby for the first time can feel overwhelming and scary. Take some of the guesswork out by following my tips and tricks.

The first time I ever took my firstborn son out on my own, I was shaking from nervousness. I put on some soothing music and triple checked my diaper bag to make sure I had everything. I kissed my husband goodbye with tears in my eyes. “Pray for me.” I said and took a deep breath. 

I’m not sure why I was so nervous that day. Perhaps it was the fact that my son was losing weight.  It may have been the fact that the place I was taking him was to the lactation consultant. Most likely, I was anxious that he would cry a lot on the 40 minute drive. What I do know is that the soothing music of lullabies for babies ended up soothing me more than the baby. By the end of the day, we made it to the appointment and were able to enjoy our outing.

If I had to do it over…

If I had to do it over, I would have brought my husband or some back up with me if at all possible. I didn’t want to inconvenience anyone. If there’s ever a time to inconvenience anyone and ask for help, it’s when you have a brand new baby and are going out for the first time (or doing any “first” things). Most likely, you will find that people want to help and it won’t feel like an inconvenience to anyone.

With each baby since then, I have gained confidence as a mama. One thing remains: The first outing with a new babe is nerve wracking. 

Here are my top tips to making your first outing with your baby as easy as possible.

1. A well packed bag is essential. Here’s what I pack in my diaper bag with a newborn…(separate post with link)
2. Soothing music (for you and baby!)
3. Leave with plenty of time if you have somewhere to be at a certain time. 
4. Take your time. Don’t rush yourself or your baby. The times when I felt the most stressed and anxious about being out, it was because I felt like we needed to hurry or not inconvenience anyone. Now is not the time to worry about that. Take all the time you need (write this on your hand if you need the reminder). 
5. If you can bring your husband, mother, or a friend, do it. Many hands make light work, as they say. 
6. Build in something relaxing and enjoyable to your outing. For instance, if coffee is your thing, make sure you go through a drive through or head to a cafe and get your java fix. If being outside delights you, strap baby into a carrier and go for a small walk in the park. Smell some roses if available. This doesn’t have to be anything big or flashy, just something you enjoy.

So there you go, Mama. When the time comes, I hope these tips help.

But wait, there’s more! I have designed a diaper bag checklist to help take some of the guesswork out of what to pack for Baby and Mama. Click here to get your free download.

If you have been somewhere with your little one, or are a seasoned mama by now, what things helped you the most? 

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