How to Know When to Take a Baby Out

After waiting nine long months for your little bundle of joy to arrive, you may be anxious to take her out and show her off to the world. However, it's important to know when it's safe to take your baby out in public and how to keep her healthy when you do.

  1. Your Newborn

    • Of course, your baby's first outing is likely the trip home from the hospital after birth. Once you're home, it's important to remember that your baby's immune system is not fully developed, which means he may not be able to fight off an infection, according to KidsHealth from Nemours. While there is no set time for waiting to take your baby on his first outing, some doctors recommend that you wait until your baby is a few months before taking him out to crowded places, notes KidsHealth.

    Weather Considerations

    • When you do take your baby out, pay attention to the weather and make sure she doesn't get too cold, too hot or spend too much time in the sun, notes the website, DrGreene.com. Generally, you'll want to put one more layer of clothing on your baby than what you are wearing, to keep her comfortable, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' website, HealthyChildren.org. During the winter, choose thin layers, as well as warm booties, a hat and mittens. In the summer, choose light, breathable clothing and don't forget a hat to protect her from the sun.

    Exposure to Illness

    • Getting your baby outside for fresh air is good for him. He will likely enjoy the change of scenery, sounds and smells. Choose destinations that are not crowded and avoid public places like shopping malls and movie theaters, where he could be exposed to illness, advises KidsHealth from Nemours. Keep your baby away from people that you know are sick and limit the number of people you let hold your baby.

    Safety Precautions

    • Keep your baby's immunizations up-to-date and ask everyone you visit with to wash their hands before holding her. Babies under the age of six months are at high risk for complications from illnesses, like the flu, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Get your flu shot and encourage others that are regularly in contact with your baby to get one as well. Wash your own hands or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner often when you are out and about. Avoid allowing your baby to touch surfaces that are touched by the public, by keeping your infant in a baby carrier or a stroller. Once your baby reaches six months, she should get a flu shot too, advises the CDC.

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