Patiently awaiting the arrival of your new bundle of joy can often be easier said than done. Many soon-to-be moms in their third trimester are more than ready to have their baby join them on the outside of the womb. But how will you ensure you’re prepared to bring that baby home and have as smooth of a transition as possible? I’m going to tell you exactly how with these 5 Nesting Tips for First Time Moms.
Pack Your Hospital Bag EARLY
Don’t wait until the last minute to gather all of your gear to head to the hospital! Ensure you’re cool, calm, and collected (at least as much as possible) by creating a list of everything you want to take with you, and have those bags packed and placed in the trunk of your car by 35 weeks. Don’t forget stuff for your partner, too! You never know when you might go into labor, so it’s best to have your bags somewhere close by at all times. Not sure what to pack? Here’s a great list of things you might consider.
Embrace Freezer Meals
It’s not rare for eating and general self care to fall to the wayside after your baby makes his grand entrance into the world. We’re often so caught up in all the newness (and worry!) that comes with a newborn that we forget to eat, hydrate, and/or even shower. Time does not seem plentiful when you’re operating on a newborn’s schedule. How can you guarantee you and your partner are fed and tended to during those first few weeks? Freezer Meals! Begin by creating a short list of meals that you and your partner enjoy that can be pre-assembled and placed in the freezer until time to heat and eat. Sorting these meals into individual servings or single-meal portions (for more than 1 person) will help take so much stress out of your day. Here and here are some posts with tons of recipes and ideas for your freezer stash.
Wash And Sort All Newborn Clothing
You never really know what kind of chemicals or dirt might be on clothing you’ve bought for your new baby. Newborns enter the world with very little immunity to germs, and you don’t want your little guy breathing in any fumes from a factory or warehouse, right? Use that third trimester boost of energy to pre-wash and sort all of his clothing, that way you won’t have to worry about it once he’s earthside. You want to make sure you get to really enjoy that sweet, newborn smell!
Stock Up And Organize Anything You May Need in the First Month
You don’t want to remember nipple cream at 2 a.m. while consoling a hungry, crying baby. Create a list of everything you might need for those first few weeks, like gas drops, diaper rash cream, Fenugreek, etc. There’s no such thing as being too prepared! Make sure you put all of these things in easy to access (and remember!) places. Mom Brain is a real thing - it’s easy to forget things when you’re thrown into the sometimes-overwhelming world of parenthood for the first time. You can even create a handy list of exactly what items you have and where they’re stored. This makes a great resource for anyone visiting you in your home (such as in-laws/parents, helpful friends, or your doula!).
Install Your Car Seat and Have It Checked by a CPST
Once you leave the hospital you and your partner will be the only people responsible for your newborn. Feeding, cleaning, transporting, you name it. There are a lot of things to consider! Did you know that between 74 and 90% of child seats are used improperly? Even the most well meaning and dedicated parents can, and often do, miss an important step in the car seat installation process. A Child Passenger Safety Technician can check your installation, suggest any needed improvements, show you how to properly install your seat from start to finish, and then supervise you installing it just to ensure you’ve got it down. A properly installed child seat can be your child’s saving grace in the event of an accident. Be knowledgeable and confident in your ability to use your child’s seat in the correct manner. You can check the SafeKids website to see what CPSTs are in your area. (Many, but not all, law enforcement officers and first responders are trained CPSTs. Call your local offices if you can’t find anyone on the SafeKids website!) Now you can enjoy these last few days/weeks of it just being you and your partner instead of stressing over what life will be like once your baby is here! Rest easy knowing you’re prepared. Happy Birthing!
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!