Activities for You and Your Baby

Baby and Me Time

You need to protect your baby from illnesses, but you don’t have to stay cooped up in the house! There are lots of places you can take your baby. Zoos, aquariums, and parks tend to be less crowded during the week. They are great for teaching your baby about new sights and sounds. Farmers markets and coffee shops are less overwhelming than traditional grocery stores and restaurants. Some markets have special WIC and SNAP benefits!

Libraries usually have baby-friendly areas, too. Plus, reading to your child can help with language development. Find a public library near you. You may want to join a community group. Check out the International MOMS Club and Baby Center.

Make sure your baby gets plenty of tummy time. Place your baby on their stomach while they are awake and someone is watching them. Tummy time has many benefits for your baby. It helps to prevent flat spots on the back of the baby's head. It strengthens their muscles so they can start to crawl. And it improves their motor skills. Check out our Resource Center to learn more.

Keep your baby safe by following these tips:

Keep your baby covered

Keep them in the stroller and covered with a thin blanket. This will help protect them from the sun. Plus, it will keep strangers from trying to bother your baby.

Don't let strangers touch your baby

Some people may try to touch or kiss your baby. This is not okay. They could get your baby sick.

Carry disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer

Not able to wash your hands? Disinfect the surfaces you touch and use hand sanitizer.

We-Time with the Whole Family

Set some time aside for your older children

Many things change with a new baby in the family. Ask a friend or family member to watch the baby so you can connect with your other children.

Put your little helpers to work

Let older children sit with you while you’re feeding the baby. Or have them get things for you, like diapers or bottles. If they are younger, get them a baby doll to take care of while you take care of the baby. They can be just like you!

While you are cooking dinner or doing other tasks, put the baby in a safe place and have the other children talk or sing to the baby to help keep them settled.

Mealtime can be chaotic

Try to prep meals ahead of time. That way, you're ready to go once those tummies start grumbling.

Keep snacks in your purse or diaper bag in case an older child gets upset or you need a pick-me-up.

Make older kids a fun activity basket. Put special toys or coloring books in a container that they can play with while you are feeding your newborn.

Make extra food when you're cooking and freeze the leftovers. Having healthy, frozen meals on hand can make mealtimes easier. For tips on healthy eating, check out our Resources Page.

Don't Forget You Time

Scheduling time to hang out with your friends can be difficult. Ask friends or family to babysit. Try to plan ahead so you can enjoy some adult time (or sleep).

If you are breastfeeding and plan to go out, make sure you pump ahead of time. Learn about pumping and storing breast milk.