One of the toughest challenges for a new parent is packing up for the baby to go see the family and friends. There is so much to remember when packing a diaper bag that sometimes some of the most important items get left behind. Of course parents are going to remember to pack diapers, rash cream, formula or breast milk, and bottles. However, it is often some of the little things that get left behind that end up causing a disaster for your infant.
Packing for the baby is a bit tricky. Every outing is going to have important items, and sometimes they are not the same items you will need every time. If you are going outside as a family, then protecting your infant with sunscreen is critical. Applying sunscreen before you leave home is not always sufficient. You should always pack sunscreen when you leave with your baby.
These pieces of important baby care products often get left at home.
Lip balm-Lip balm is similar to sunscreen in that it protects your baby’s lips from sun and dry air damage. Chapped lips can be a great discomfort for a small baby.
Teething ring-If your baby is teething, forgetting to grab their teething ring in the refrigerator at home could end in disaster.
Snacks – Babies love to snack. Teething babies’ best friends are small snacks that they can practice chewing on. Even if you are going to a family barbecue, grabbing a few snacks for the baby could save the day.
Toys – Toys are often the last thing a parent expects to need for their child. However, being passed around the family will only keep a baby occupied for too long. They need toys to help their brains develop and help with interacting with their environment.
Medicine – Leaving home without medicine for your baby could be a disaster. Every parent has very strict guidelines for giving their child medication, or at least they should. That means that coming up with medicine on the fly can be very difficult. Pack everything you could need, medicine wise, every time you leave with your baby.
Extra outfit – How many times do you change the baby throughout the day? Some days it can be hard to count. One outfit is never enough to get a baby through the day. Changing soiled clothing on babies is very important. A wet outfit could cause medical problems for your baby.
A blanket – A baby needs a blanket, and that is a fact. Babies have a more difficult time regulating their body temperature. Even if a baby looks comfortable sleeping, they could be very cold. Moderating your child’s body temperature is one of the most important jobs a parent has.
Extra everything – Always pack extra diapers, cream, snacks, toys, formula, and clothes. You never want to run out of anything for your baby. Packing extra should be like packing the norm.
Travis Newville
Breckenridge, Michigan