When you’re busy caring for young children, the days can be long and repetitive. You probably spend a large chunk of your day changing diapers and feeding babies. By now, you’re probably settled into a nice routine. You may have baby groups or classes to attend each week and perhaps regular meetups with other moms. Every so often, however, it’s a good idea to escape from your regular routine and enjoy a special day out with your baby. Why? Because it’ll be fun. Your baby will experience something new and you’ll get a break from the norm. Here are a few ideas for places to visit on days out with your baby:
- The art gallery or museum
Your baby might not be old enough to read the information signs or understand artistic concepts just yet, but that doesn’t mean he’s too young for a bit of culture. Art galleries and museums are filled with interesting attention-grabbing displays that will fascinate your baby. Bright colors, eye-catching patterns, and unusual displays will keep your baby entertained at the art gallery. And the interactive displays, buttons to press and exhibitions to explore will provide just as much entertainment at the museum. Museums and art galleries often have special activities running throughout the week for babies, so keep an eye out for listings at museums and galleries near you.
- The beach
The beach is pretty much the perfect location for a baby day out. It has lots to offer your baby’s senses, making it the ideal sensory day out. The feel of the sand on your baby’s skin, the sound of the waves lapping against the shore and the taste of the ice cream you share together at the beach. Make sure you take a bucket and spade and something to sit on. If it’s a sunny day, make sure you pack enough sun protection and make sure your baby is wearing a hat at all times. You’ll also need to pack a couple of spare outfits for your baby – you might be surprised at just how messy it is possible to get at the seaside!
- Steam train
Babies and young children love public transport almost as much as most adults hate it. Whilst you may dread your morning commute, your baby gives a wide smile each and every time he spots a bus. With this in mind, a trip on a steam train is sure to impress. You may be able to find a miniature steam railway to a country park or attraction near your house. Failing that, a journey on a full-size steam train will do.
- Picnic
When the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than enjoying nature with your baby. A picnic is a perfect way to spend some quality time together enjoying the beautiful countryside around you. Pack a selection of your baby’s favorite foods (and a few of your own!), a picnic blanket and a ball and head out into the sunshine. You could just walk to the park near your house or, if you fancy an adventure, you could head further afield. Have fun exploring nature with your baby. Smell the flowers, touch the leaves and enjoy the feeling of grass under your bare feet. Try and engage with as many of your baby’s senses as possible.
- Garden center
A garden center probably isn’t the first place that springs to mind when you think of days out with your baby, but it’s an excellent choice for you and your baby. Garden centers are filled with brightly colored flowers, strong smelling herbs, and different textured leaves. There are trees, bushes, water features and enough gnomes to keep your baby transfixed for hours. And, unlike the wide expanse of nature, there are baby changing facilities and places you can buy a cup of coffee. Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it?
Where do you like to go on your special days out with your baby?
Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.
