My first baby was born just as winter was gearing up (brrr), so I’m super pumped to have a summer baby this time around! Pumpkin and I love to be outside (not to mention it was a looong winter) so I’m trying to find fun things we can do outside that’s totally possible with a newborn in tow.

Here’s what I’ve come up with so far:

• Walk to the park, splash pad, local library or EarlyON Child and Family Centre drop-in
• Play in the backyard
• Have a picnic – either at the park or in our backyard
• Playdates!
• Walk for the fun of it and count things like squirrels, birds and trucks

What’s on my mind now is – what do I need to think about in terms of the baby’s safety when outside? With new research being released every day, recommendations are constantly changing especially when it comes to infants (as any Grandmother can tell you!). I’ve sifted through and found the most up-to-date recommendations for infants this summer:

• Sun protection for babies – shade, shade, shade! Keep all babies 12 months and younger out of direct sunlight. Watch out for reflected light bouncing off of water, sand and concrete.
• Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of heat and smog. I’ve signed up to receive heat and smog alerts and plan to stay indoors (in an air-conditioned place) on those days. On warmer days, be prepared to nurse more often and drink lots of water yourself.
• Don’t forget about mosquitoes! Protect your baby from mosquitos (DEET products are not recommended for the first 6 months).
• If you have an older baby, here are some good tips for water/swimming safety.

Got any more suggestions on things I can do with Pumpkin and a newborn?? I’d love to hear them! There are many ways to connect with us:

• Leave us a comment below
• Tweet with us @haltonparents
• Email us at haltonparents@halton.ca
• Call the HaltonParents line for parenting information or to speak directly to a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.