Just the Two of Us: Great Dad and Baby Outings
From rockin’ out in the car to staring at the fishes, we’ve got plenty of activities perfect for some Dad and Baby time.
Take a Drive
Many babies love the car; nothing else puts them to sleep so quickly! Whether the little passenger is awake for the ride or snoozing in back, take some time to leisurely cruise favorite neighborhoods or drive a scenic route. Try playing some of your favorite songs. From Springsteen to the Stones, it’s never too early to start Baby’s “classic” musical education.
Hit the Bakery
Let mom sleep in on a weekend morning while you hit the sweet shop! Since it’s bound to be a small store, this is the perfect outing. It’s a quick trip, full of wonderful aromas and it ends with a sweet treat for everyone who is able to walk. (Instead of a sugary donut, pick up a freshly baked whole wheat roll for your baby to enjoy.)
Photo Hunting
Strap the baby in her stroller and head out with the camera. Whether you’re into wildlife images or urban landscapes, take your time to set up each shot; your baby can nap or take in the sights from the comfort of her own seat. Bonus, you’ve got extra storage space (for baby supplies and photo equipment) in the built-in stroller basket.
Farmer's Market
On a sunny day, nothing beats the fresh air and sweet smells of a farmer’s market. Put the baby in a front carrier so he can take it all in. Let him touch fresh produce, smell different types of cheese and sample a bit of homemade bread on the way home.
Aquarium
Better than a zoo, the aquarium is a quiet, often dark, rarely smelly place that makes for a great Dad and Baby destination. Little ones love the calm but shiny sensation of fish swimming in water. Let her touch the glass and be sure to take advantage of hands-on areas where little fingers can splash with starfish and friends.
Make a Lunch Date
A great outing doesn’t have to last all day. Take some time away from the office for lunch with your little one. If your baby’s “lunch” still involves a breast or two, make sure he’s fed before bringing him into the office and showing him off to your co-workers.
Stroll Through the Neighborhood
Nothing beats a casual walk through your own ‘hood. Bring the dog along and stop as often as either of you likes. Point out the interesting goings-on, from birds overhead to your neighbor mowing his yard. The beauty of babyhood is this: every single thing is new and exciting. This is your chance to relish those moments.
Coffee Shop
Small babies, under the age of 6 months or so, make particularly good coffee dates since they’re most likely to be content in a front carrier or stroller for longer periods of time. (And when we say “longer” we mean 20 minutes or so.) Dad can bring the paper, a magazine he’s been meaning to thumb through or just make it a quick run for a cup of Joe.
Playground
If your baby is able to sit up, he’ll love the infant swings at the playground. Dad can push, tickle and take pictures. If he’s still a little small for toys, the combination of sunshine, fresh air and bigger kids laughing makes this a can’t-miss adventure.
Saturday Morning Lessons
Since many dads are at work during the week, a standing Saturday date is a great way to schedule in regular Dad and Baby bonding time. Swimming and music classes are popular options. Churches, YMCAs and parenting groups are good places to find out about what programs are available in your area.
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