It’s In the Bag: Tips on Your First Outing with a New Baby
The first few days at home with your newborn are a precious time when you can forget the routine of daily life and just focus on your precious bundle. But eventually, you will have to leave that bubble.
Leaving home with your baby in tow can be intimidating for a first-time mom. But a well-stocked diaper bag is a mommy’s best friend. So for a trip to the grocery store, a friend’s house or maybe just to grab a coffee, you should know what to bring.
- Extra diapers (one for each hour you will be gone.)
- Baby wipes
- Diaper rash ointment
- Changing pad
- Two extra outfits
- Burp cloth
- Extra bottle, or nursing cover if you are breastfeeding
- Blanket
- Extra nursing pads for mom
- Extra pacifier, if you are using one
- Extra hat and socks for baby, if seasonably necessary
It can be tempting to bring everything but the kitchen sink. But you aren’t packing for a weekend away. Keep things simple, and keep your confidence up with a few more tips:
- Pack just enough backups to keep you from having to cut your outing short and head home if there is an accident.
- Don’t worry about bringing toys for your newborn- your smiling face and hearing your voice is entertainment enough for him.
- Keep hand sanitizer ready for people who want to hold or touch the baby.
- Wearing your baby in a sling or wrap can keep her close and protected from the hands of strangers if you don’t want that contact.
- If you aren’t comfortable with strangers touching your child, say so. Be polite, but firm. You can say something like “I know he is irresistible, but we want to keep him safe from germs. Thanks for understanding!”
Don’t overstress about introducing your child to the outside world. Before you know it, you’ll be slinging that always-packed bag over your shoulder and strolling out the door with your baby like a pro.