As a new mom, I know leaving the house with your baby can seem daunting. It can feel overwhelming, from packing the diaper bag to ensuring the baby is safe and comfortable. However, leaving the house with your little one can be a stress-free experience with a few practical tips and a little preparation. In this article, I’ve compiled 10 practical tips to make leaving the house with your baby a breeze.
1. Pre-pack your diaper bag. If you need to or want to leave the house in advance, pack your diaper bag the day before to reduce the number of tasks you need to complete and leave on time. Be sure to include an extra outfit for the baby in case of accidents or spit-up.
2. Bring items that comfort your baby. Pack items to soothe your baby in case they become upset while you are out. Some examples are pacifiers, blankets, noise machines, and teething toys.
3. Have your stroller or carrier in the vehicle. Consider which you need to bring or whether you should bring both. Pack your stroller or baby carrier in your vehicle in advance to reduce the tasks you need to complete and leave on time.
4. Plan to leave after a feeding. This way your baby will be fed and not get hungry during your drive and while you are wherever you need to attend.
5. Plan to leave before the baby’s nap time. This way, the baby can fall asleep during the drive and hopefully stay asleep while you attend to your business.
6. Plan for a feeding while you are out. If you know you could be out long enough that your baby will become hungry while you are out, plan for a space where you can feed the baby.
7. Plan for diaper changes. Consider where you can change the baby if needed, whether your destination has changing tables or a suitable space and whether your vehicle has an appropriate space.
8. Bring a snack for yourself. You may not have time to stop for food or a meal while you are out, so bring some snacks for yourself to keep your energy levels up. This also helps to make healthy choices when it’s easier to make unhealthy choices with a young baby for convenience.
9. Stay organized. Keep a checklist of the items you must bring and tasks you must complete before leaving the house. This will help you stay organized and reduce stress. Mom brain is real, and you don’t want to leave without your phone or wallet.
10. Lastly, take your time and don’t rush. Leaving the house with a baby can be challenging, so give yourself plenty of time. Remember to enjoy the outing with your baby!
Leaving the house with your baby can be challenging. By following these practical tips, you can ensure that you and your baby have everything you need to stay comfortable and safe while you are out. Remember to stay calm and be flexible if things do not go according to plan. With a bit of practice, leaving the house with your little one will become second nature, and you will feel confident in your ability to handle any situation that arises.