As a new mom of two, I knew we would have an adjustment period of finding our new normal. The first month was rough. Newborns require a lot of attention as they are adjusting to the outside world. Oh, and they hardly sleep very long overnight so the sleep deprivation is real.
And 3-year-olds are just plain hard sometimes, especially when they now have to share their mama and stay home a lot more often than normal since we we’re not adventuring out of the house with a newborn in tow for many reasons. But I knew after a period of time, we would eventually get back into our routine and have better days.
Adventuring outside of the house with a newborn and toddler was something I knew I needed to do in order to maintain my positive mental health state and to also expend my toddler’s energy. It was something that I needed to immerse myself into in order to figure it out.
First: Go for a trial run!
In order to prepare, I wanted to get out somewhere, like the zoo, when my husband could go with us so I could do a trial run on having two kids vs. one. Once I could see how our trip went, I was able to visualize how I could make a trip myself with both kids.
Second: Start out small!
On my first trip out of the house with two kids, I chose a park that was only five minutes away. This way, if my baby hated the car ride it was sure to be short or if the trip had been a disaster, we were very close to home!
Third: Stay within your comfort zone!
All of the trips I take with my kids solo are places I’m familiar with. I travel to places that I have been to before or that I have seen photos of or a map of and can visualize the space. It’s a bonus if my toddler also is familiar, so he knows how to act and sort of what to expect of our adventure. For us, the zoo is our place and was our first “big” outing when my baby was just six weeks old. Find your comfortable destination and try that out a few times.
Fourth: Pack these essentials!
- Snacks. I always am sure to have snacks as they typically solve most of my toddler’s complaints (and mine).
- A babywearing device. Mine has way too many options than I know what to do with, but figure out what works for you and get used to using it.
- A double stroller. Crucial to success in my opinion. I can strap in both kids when needed and I know they are safe. It also helps carry all our stuff!
Five: Make it social!
Meeting up with a friend or friends with their kids somewhere makes trips more enjoyable for all. I can get some much-needed adult conversation and your kids will also have some other kids to hang with. And if you need someone to help in a pinch, what better than another mom who knows exactly what you are going through.
Going on outings while being outnumbered by kids, let alone a trip with a baby, can be daunting. Go with the flow and try to make some memories. After all, the craziest experiences are the ones that make the best stories to tell right?!
What other tips do you have for moms with kids who want to leave their house? How was your first trip outside the house with more than one kid?
