Getting out and about with baby
Are you itching to get out of the house with your baby, but are not sure where to go? Finding baby-focused activities is a great way to get out and to meet other mums and babies in a supportive and friendly environment. Here are some ideas to get you started
On the move
Gone are the days when you skipped out of the door with just your handbag. Getting ready to go out with your baby can feel like a military operation and so often you've got one foot out the door, there's a rumble and your baby needs yet another nappy change. Keep your change bag well stocked with nappies, wipes, cotton wool and a couple of changes of clothes by the door. That way you're not scrambling around to find it when you're in a hurry to get out. If you're carrying bottles make sure they are sterile before leaving the house.
Meet-a-mum
Caring for your baby can leave you feeling overwhelmed and drained at times, which is why it's important to get out and socialise and share experiences with other mothers. Mother and baby groups are a great starting point. To find out about groups in your local area, contact the local council for information about the children's services. The NCT organises drop-in groups and coffee mornings for new mums. And on days when you can't make it out of the house, chat to Mums with babies the same age at the iVillage Mums Club.
Baby massage
As well as being a fantastic way to bond with your baby, baby massage has a multitude of positive effects, from easing colic to helping your baby to sleep. Joining a class is a good way to learn the massage techniques and spend some time with other mothers with new babies. Your local hospital and health centre often run classes, or visit The International Association of Infant Massage for a list of baby massage courses in your area.
Post-natal exercise classes
While there should be no pressure to get back into shape straight after having a baby, gentle exercise that focuses on the post-natal recovery is hugely beneficial to mothers. Look for post-natal classes where you can bring baby too. Mother and baby yoga will help to ease and stretch tired muscles and improve posture and tone. Or you can take walking your baby to a new level with a buggy fit class, an outdoor workout class for new mums.
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