We have all been there. You finally get the chance to get out of the house to enjoy some fresh air while strolling with your babe and then…. Your kiddo is melting down after two minutes in and the experience is well, not ideal. Here are some tips in attempt to keep your little(s) engaged so you can take care of YOU, mama, AND get the most out of your outing.
1. Snacks: First and foremost, you can’t go wrong with snacks! This is a given. Think easy to grab and hold snacks (i.e., pouches, finger foods, etc.) as well as easy access snack containers for those little hands. We love snack spinners! Check them out here.
2. Comfort item: If your kid(s) have a favorite toy, lovey or paci at home they could bring to ride with, that may help keep them at ease.
3. Books: Consider bringing borrowed books from the library or books they have not seen in a while from your book stash so your child has something different or “new” to look at during class. My toddler loves “Look and find” and Poke-A-Dot books which are more interactive. There are also lots of options for educational Busy board books.
4. Coloring/Stickers: Endless options here depending on age of kiddo. Bring coloring or tracing books with a baggie of crayons. Water Wow books that are reusable and mess free with a special water marker. You can even print fun free downloadable coloring sheets online. Add an extra side of fun with stickers for your kiddo to add to their masterpiece.
5. Toys: Cloth toys or books you can hook to your stroller are a great option to keep little hands busy. Toy harness straps are available on amazon to secure toys, pacifiers, cups, etc. from falling to the ground! Check them out here.
6. Sticker Scene activities: Reusable sticker scene books are available at many retail stores and online that make the perfect time consuming task for toddlers!
7. Technology (as desired): Music, iPad, tablets have never ending options to engage littles attention.
8. Boogie Boards: These are so much fun and definitely worth the hype for easy doodling and one click clearing for re-use. They come in various sizes/colors and are lightweight.
9. Laminated activity sheets (for older kiddos): Grab some tracing activity sheets or type your kiddos name on a word document and laminate for reuse! You can pick up self-seal laminating sheets at Target or Amazon. There are also endless options for "write and reuse" activity books at several retailers. Pack some washable dry erase markers and you're all set.
10. Attend a FIT4MOM Texarkana Stroller Strides class: Classes are designed with Fun4baby activities incorporated (i.e., bubbles, books, songs) along with keeping the littles moving so you can get a solid work out in while spending time with your baby!
Consistency and flexibility is KEY. With frequent exposure, kids catch on to routine and are less likely to have difficulty. With that being said, kids have good days as well as challenging moments and that is okay. Come try a FIT4MOM Texarkana class, we are all moms and in it together!
Check out our schedule of classes here.
First class is FREE!
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