It's summertime and the living is, well, not exactly easy
with a baby, but it's definitely interesting! Now's your chance to get out with
your little one and show him or her the world--start with these ideas to
explore and enjoy summer in a whole new way.
Visit the Zoo
No question zoos and aquariums are child-friendly, but
babies love them too. Or save the price of admission and take a quick visit to
the pet store. Just don't be surprised if your baby spends as much or more time
checking out the other visitors as the animals. Remember, strangers are as
exotic as elephants to her!
Go Berry Picking
A delicious way to spend a morning, berry picking is also an
extremely baby-friendly activity. Wear your little one or set him up on a blanket
under a shade tree, and set to the task of plucking the lusciously fresh fruit
straight from the vines and into your mouth, err, basket.
Hit the Pool
Beat the heat with a trip to the public pool and introduce
your babe to the joys of splashing about amongst hysterically happy children.
Or set up a wading pool in your backyard for more low-key but still fun water
play.
Check Out the Farmers
Market
Farmers Markets rank up there as one of summer's most
baby-friendly activities. There's generally room for strollers, no one minds if
your baby gets fussy, and vendors often welcome the chance to coo over your
cutie. Instill a love of fruits and veggies in your baby by telling her their
names and letting her smell the fresh herbs and squeeze the fruit.
Settle in at Library
Story Time
Get out of the blazing sun and into the cool stacks of a
library and you'll get your baby started early on a love of reading. Some
libraries host special babies-only story times, featuring age-appropriate songs
and nursery rhymes; these can be good places to connect with other moms as well
as bond with your baby. Check with your local branch to see if they have any
special summer programs (think puppet shows and performances from local kiddie
bands).
These fun activities will keep you and your baby active and
engaged in all the fascinating sights, sounds, smells and touches of
summer. This also gets Mom out of the
house for some relaxation time with the baby.
Happy Summer and have fun!