20 Things to Do with Newborn in Summer: Fun and Safe Activities
Hey there, mama! So it’s summer and you have a newborn baby. This is the prime time for social events and being out of the house. But what are things to do with your newborn in the summer?!
I get it. You may want to stay inside during the summer, resting and bonding with your baby. And what new mom has the energy to put on actual clothes?!
But it’s a good time to leave the house every now and then to enjoy the warmer weather.
So if you’re looking for things to do with your newborn during their first summer, here is a guide on fun and safe activities to add to your list!
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Outdoor Activities
During the summer, the idea for taking your newborn out is to enjoy the warm weather. Here are some outdoor activities you can do with your new baby.
Park Outings
Taking your newborn to the park is an excellent way to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Find a shady spot and spread out a blanket for some tummy time and play. You can also practice yoga or read out loud to your baby. Capture these precious moments by taking photos of your little one enjoying the scenery.
Taking a Stroll
Going for a walk with your newborn is a great way to bond and connect with nature. Use a comfortable and supportive stroller while exploring your neighborhood or local parks. This activity will help both you and your baby get exercise and fresh air.
You can also use a baby wrap to baby wear. This keeps baby close and your hands free while you walk.
Zoo Trips
Visiting a zoo allows your little one to experience interesting sights and sounds. Zoos often have paths designed for strollers, making it easy to navigate while enjoying the various exhibits. Your baby will benefit from seeing new animals and hearing unique sounds.
Baby’s First Hike
As long as your baby is securely strapped in a baby carrier, hiking can provide quality bonding time and expose your little one to nature’s beauty. Opt for easy, well-shaded trails, and ensure your baby is protected from the sun and insects.
Picnics and Nature Walks
Outdoor picnics in a park or your backyard are relaxing ways to spend time together. Incorporate short nature walks to explore the local environment and snap photos of your little one surrounded by nature.
Outdoor Concerts
Your local community might host outdoor concerts or performances throughout the summer. These events are an enjoyable way to immerse your newborn in new sounds and experiences. Just make sure to protect your baby’s ears if the music is too loud.
Water Play
The summer is the perfect time for your newborn to experience water play, a great sensory activity!
Visiting the Beach
Introduce your baby to the sights, sounds, and sensations of the beach. Pushing the stroller on the boardwalk provides a soothing motion for your newborn. While on the sand, ensure your baby stays comfortable with a sunshade, a cool breeze, and gentle waves lapping at their toes.
Taking your newborn to the beach can be both exciting and daunting. To make the trip enjoyable, pack essentials like:
- A baby beach tent for shade
- A blanket for them to lie and crawl on
- Appropriate clothing with UV protection
- Sunscreen specifically for babies
- Toys to distract and entertain them
Remember to keep your baby hydrated and well-fed while at the beach, and closely monitor their sun exposure and any signs of discomfort.
Pool Time for Newborns
Introducing your newborn to the pool can be a wonderful bonding experience. To ensure a smooth transition, start with shallow water and support your baby’s head and body at all times. Make sure to have swim diapers on hand as they’re highly recommended for pool time. Encourage splashing and kicking, while singing or talking to your baby to create a positive association with the water.
Kiddie Pools in the Backyard
Setting up a kiddie pool in your backyard is a simple and fun way to introduce your newborn to water play. Fill the pool with just enough water to cover their legs and create a comfortable and safe environment. You can add floating toys or bath toys to make it more engaging. Always supervise your baby, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen and protective clothing.
Fun with Sprinklers and Splash Pads
Sprinklers and splash pads are great for creating a stimulating outdoor water play experience. You can hold your newborn close to the water and let them feel the gentle spray, or place them on a waterproof mat nearby to safely observe the action. Check out local splash pads and choose a time when it’s less crowded for a more enjoyable experience.
Remember, always put safety first and keep a close watch on your baby during all water play activities. With the proper precautions, summer can be an excellent time to create lasting memories with your newborn.
Indoor Entertainment
While the summer is a great time to get outside, it may be too hot for your newborn. If you’re stuck inside on an extra hot day, here are some good activities to mix up your routine.
Community Library Visits
Taking your newborn to your local library can be a delightful experience. Many libraries offer storytime sessions for babies where you can bond together while enjoying a good book. Most libraries also have kid-friendly sections and cozy reading corners, permitting you and your baby to explore new stories together in a calming environment.
Attend a baby-friendly dance or movement class
A baby-friendly dance or movement class is a great way to bond with your newborn while also getting some exercise. These classes are designed specifically for parents and their babies, so you don’t have to worry about your baby being too young or disruptive.
In these classes, you’ll typically learn some basic dance or movement routines that you can do with your baby, such as gentle bouncing or swaying. The movements are designed to be safe and easy for both you and your baby, and can help improve your baby’s coordination and motor skills.
These classes also provide a great opportunity to meet other parents and babies in your community, and can be a fun and social outing for both you and your little one.
Attend a mommy and me group or playdate
A mommy and me group or playdate is a great way to connect with other new parents and their babies.
In these groups and playdates, you’ll typically engage in activities that are appropriate for your baby’s age, such as singing songs, reading books, or playing with toys. You’ll also have the opportunity to socialize with other parents and share your experiences of parenting.
Aquarium Adventures
Visiting an aquarium is an excellent way to introduce your newborn to the fascinating world of marine life. Your baby will be captivated by the vibrant colors and mesmerizing movement of the fish. This experience not only stimulates their senses but also provides a cool, indoor escape from the summer heat.
Sports Games and Events
Attending a local baseball game or sporting event with your newborn can be an enjoyable outing. While they may not fully comprehend the game, the atmosphere and excitement can be entertaining. Remember to protect your baby’s delicate skin and ears by using hats, sunscreen, and noise-canceling headphones during the event.
Shopping and Pet Store Excursions
Taking your newborn for a stroll around a shopping mall can offer a pleasant indoor escape from the summer heat. While you shop, your baby can enjoy people-watching and the surrounding sights and sounds. Adding a pet store visit to your itinerary can also be enjoyable, as your little one will be fascinated by the various animals they encounter.
Be sure to maintain hygiene and safety precautions in the pet store to ensure a fun, healthy experience for your baby.
Bonding and Relaxation
During summer, you can find refreshing ways to bond with your newborn while also enjoying some relaxation time. Here are a few activities to try with your baby:
Tummy Time
Tummy time is essential for building your newborn’s strength and promoting their motor development. Find a comfortable spot in the shade or indoors, lay your baby on their tummy, and take advantage of the summer warmth to let them explore the environment. Remember to always supervise your baby during tummy time and make it enjoyable by interacting with them.
Reading Together
Reading to your newborn can be a great bonding experience, even in the earlier months. Find a cozy spot outside or near a window, and enjoy the summer breeze while you read a colorful and engaging picture book. This can be a relaxing and soothing activity for both you and your baby while promoting early literacy skills.
Backyard Birdwatching
Not only is backyard birdwatching calming, but it can also introduce your baby to the wonders of nature. Grab a blanket and lay down with your baby in a shaded area of your backyard, then point out the different birds, listen to their songs, and describe what you see. This early exposure to birds can help your newborn develop an appreciation for the natural world.
Baby and Parent Yoga
Practicing yoga can help you relax, bond with your newborn, and work on your physical well-being. Search for a local baby yoga class that offers summertime sessions, or simply follow baby yoga tutorials in the comfort of your home or garden.
Make sure the area is shaded and comfortable, and enjoy the time spent stretching and connecting both physically and emotionally with your baby.
Newborn Summer Gear Essentials
You want to make the most of the warm summer weather by ensuring your newborn stays safe, comfortable, and happy. Here are some summer gear essentials to keep in mind.
Sun Protection
During the summer months, it’s important to keep your newborn’s delicate skin protected from the sun’s rays. Look for baby-safe sunscreen with a high SPF, and be sure to apply it to exposed skin before venturing outside. Additionally, invest in sun hats or sun shades for your baby’s stroller to provide extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Dressing for Hot Weather
Dressing your baby for hot weather is crucial in keeping them comfortable and preventing overheating. Choose lightweight baby clothes made from breathable fabrics, like cotton or linen, and avoid overdressing your little one. Short-sleeved onesies, rompers, and footless sleepers are great options to keep your newborn cool during hot days. Extra tip: Having a few lightweight baby clothes on hand can be a lifesaver for those unexpected heatwaves.
Strollers and Accessories
When it comes to strollers, look for models with adjustable canopies that provide ample shade for your baby. Additionally, consider purchasing a clip-on stroller fan to help keep your little one cool and comfortable, as well as a stroller organizer to store essentials like bottles, sunscreen, and baby wipes.
If you’re breastfeeding, a nursing cover can be incredibly helpful when you need to feed your baby on the go, providing privacy and sun protection. When it comes to your newborn’s comfort, a stroller with good support and cushioning can make all the difference during those long summer walks.
Baby Carriers
A baby carrier can be a convenient and comfortable way to keep your newborn close while enjoying summer activities such as park visits or light hikes. Opt for carriers made from lightweight, breathable materials, and prioritize designs with proper head and neck support. Some carriers even come with built-in sunshades or hoods to provide additional protection from the sun.
And remember: always follow safety guidelines and instructions when using a baby carrier to ensure the comfort and well-being of both you and your little one.
Safety and Support for Your Newborn During the Summer
When it comes to spending summer days with your newborn, safety and support should always be a priority. Let’s explore some crucial aspects to ensure a fun and secure experience.
Safety at the Pool and Beach
It’s essential to take extra precautions when bringing your newborn to the pool or beach.
- Always keep a close eye on your baby, as drowning can happen very quickly and silently.
- Choose a shady spot to protect your little one from direct sunlight.
- For additional safety, consider using a baby float with a built-in sunshade and make sure your baby is wearing a properly fitted life jacket when required.
Sun Safety Tips
Sunburn prevention is particularly important for baby’s skin, so take measures to protect your newborn from harmful UV rays.
- Dress your baby in light, breathable clothing that covers most of their body, including a wide-brimmed sun hat to shield their face and neck.
- While it’s generally recommended to avoid using sunscreen on infants under 6 months of age, consult with your pediatrician for their recommendation on sunscreen usage and specific product suggestions.
- Limit your baby’s sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Try to do activities in the early morning when it’s cooler.
Hydration and Cooling Off
Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as older kids and adults, making them more prone to overheating. To help your baby stay cool and hydrated during the summer months:
- Offer breast milk or formula more frequently than usual to ensure proper hydration.
- Keep the room temperature moderate and use fans or air conditioning to help circulate the air.
- Use a cool, damp washcloth to gently wipe your baby’s face, neck, and limbs if they appear too warm.
- Never leave your newborn in a parked car, even for a brief period or with the windows open.
Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do with a Newborn in Summer
Enjoying Summertime with Your Newborn
Having a newborn in the summer does not mean you have to be stuck inside! Spending time with your newborn in the summer can be a wonderful experience. From outdoor activities like going for a walk or visiting the park, to indoor options like reading books or singing songs, there are plenty of things you can do together to create special memories.
Just remember to always prioritize your baby’s safety and comfort. Protect them from the summer sun with appropriate clothing and sunscreen, keep them hydrated, and never leave them unattended in a hot car or outside in extreme temperatures.
And don’t forget to take care of yourself too! Being a new parent can be exhausting, so make sure to take breaks and ask for help when you need it. Remember, a happy and healthy parent means a happy and healthy baby.
So go ahead and enjoy the summer with your little one! Whether you’re soaking up the sun or staying cool indoors, there are endless opportunities for bonding and creating cherished moments. And who knows, maybe you’ll even discover some new activities that become a favorite for years to come.
Check out these other articles on newborns!