Tips For Planning Your Summer Adventure With A Toddler

There’s a unique kind of chaos that comes with taking your baby out into the world. Seriously, it sometimes feels like you’re preparing for an expedition, with every outing requiring an advanced plan. You lug around a diaper bag stuffed with everything from wipes to extra outfits, and as you head out, you can’t help but pray the destination will cater to your tiny traveler. Finding a place for the infant car seat in a restaurant? A tall order! You’re torn between not wanting it on the table and ensuring it’s not in the way. And then, just as you finally settle in, you remember you left something crucial in the car. It’s a lot!

Yet, despite all the hurdles, I was determined to reclaim a slice of that pre-mom life. I wanted to show my son, Tanner, the joys of the world beyond our walls. So, we started venturing out pretty early—he made his first brewery visit at just three weeks old! Looking back, I realize that newborns are surprisingly easy to handle outside. They don’t squirm or fuss much and are often content to nap wherever they are. But as they grow and explore, things shift drastically. You start juggling questions like where to go, the length of time you can keep them entertained, what they can eat, and fearing the judgment of others if your little one decides to let out a squeal.

Now that Tanner is on the brink of his first birthday, I feel more prepared and seasoned after a summer filled with family outings. I’m excited to share some of the strategies and products that have transformed our adventures from stressful to enjoyable.

Simplifying On-the-Go Feedings

I used to think the solid food phase would complicate mealtimes. But surprisingly, I’ve found it’s been a game-changer. When he was just on bottles, I had to keep pulling out toys to entertain him. Now, I can hand him a piece of banana or some other finger food and watch him munch away, no extra effort required. But let’s be real—meal cleanup? That’s a whole different ballgame!

To keep messes to a minimum and save some cash, we’ve embraced puree pouches. I can’t shout enough praises for Little Spoon Babyblends+. They’re these nifty little pouches filled with pureed goodies that Tanner devours. He has a particular fondness for fruit, so these pouches practically disappear in seconds. No added sugars and packed with whole food vitamins and minerals? Yes, please! When I give him one of these pouches, I feel good knowing he’s getting a nutritious meal on the go, rather than just the endless cycle of puffs and French fries.

Plus, I love that these pouches are filled with ingredients that I consider essential for his growth but don’t always manage to incorporate into his diet—think turmeric and Acerola cherry. He sees them as a sweet treat, and I get peace of mind.

More Go-To Faves for Feeding on the Fly

One nifty addition to our outings has been disposable placemats. With Tanner still experimenting with food—and trust me, it can get messy—these have become a total lifesaver. I pop one down on the table and let him explore without worrying about crumbs all over. Another must-have? A portable high chair! It makes feeding so much easier, especially in places that aren’t designed with little ones in mind.

Taking the leap to get out there can feel daunting, but with a few handy tips and tools, it can also turn into a joyous adventure. Embracing that little bit of normalcy while navigating life as a new parent doesn’t have to be an uphill battle—let’s tackle it together, one outing at a time.

As new parents, each outing can feel like a tightrope walk, especially when you have a little one in tow. You may find yourself holding your breath, anxiously wondering if today will be the day that your carefully laid plans go awry. Trust me, you’re not alone in feeling this way. That’s why developing a few strategies can make all the difference. It’s all about prepping for whatever might come your way, and those hiccups will be fewer and far between if you plan smart.

Time Outings Around Naps

One of the biggest game-changers I’ve discovered is timing those outings around your baby’s nap schedule. We all know how cranky a baby can get when they’re fighting sleep, right? If your little one isn’t yet skilled at napping in transit, you’re setting yourself up for a challenging outing. What we’ve started doing is preparing everything immediately after putting our baby down for a nap—outfits, diaper bags, snacks, toys, you name it. That way, when your baby wakes up, you’re ready to seize the moment and head out. I know it might feel stifling, especially if you’re a spontaneous person, but hang tight! This is just a phase, and soon enough you’ll be able to venture out without scouring every corner of your schedule for nap time. Stick with it during these early stages, and it will pay off!

Keep the Car Stocked

Another tip? Keep your car stocked. Let’s be honest—packing a diaper bag can sometimes feel like loading up half your house. To make life easier, stash your baby essentials in the car as well. Each time you bring home new diapers or wipes, take a few and toss them in the trunk. Keep spare clothes, shoes, diaper cream, and even a changing mat in there. A stroller or baby carrier can also come in handy. Trust me, having those items readily accessible can save you from a last-minute scramble when you’re out and about.

Rotate Toys and Activities

If your little one seems like they’ve mastered the art of staging a revolt in their car seat, rotating their toys can be a lifesaver. I’ve found that designating specific toys for outings adds a fresh twist. You’ll want to have some toys ready for the destination, and another set for the ride back. It creates a little excitement and can make those strapped-in moments a bit more bearable.

Every little effort helps when it comes to taking care of a baby, and I promise that as you get into your rhythm, things will become easier. So tighten that grip on your parenting skills, have a bit of fun with planning, and let these outings become some of the joyful moments you cherish! You got this.

When you’re a parent, venturing out with your little one can be both thrilling and daunting. The thought of taking your baby, like my adorable Tanner, to a bustling restaurant can stir up a cocktail of excitement and anxiety. I remember the first few times I took him out; I felt this overwhelming panic when he’d start to get a little too energetic. But rather than letting my nerves dictate our outings, I decided to adapt my approach.

One of the best strategies I discovered is to choose restaurants with a noisy ambiance. It’s reassuring to know that some uproar from the kiddos around you will likely go unnoticed amidst the clattering plates and lively chatter. Places with outdoor seating can also offer that extra layer of comfort, allowing more room for my little one to wiggle and explore—even if it means my table occasionally doubles as his personal drum set. It’s an adorable sight, really. I find that when I select venues that embrace families, it gives me the peace of mind to enjoy a meal without my anxiety overshadowing our experience.

As warmer months roll in, preparing for the heat is essential, especially when summer days soar into the 90s. Although we may not face the sweltering heat of the South here in the Northeast, it can still be tough on a small child. I’ve learned to keep a handy zip-pouch in our car or diaper bag filled with all the summer essentials: a UPF sunhat to shield Tanner’s head, sunscreen to protect that delicate skin, and an attachable fan for the stroller or high chair. And let’s be honest—baby aviators are just the cutest accessory, right?

As for my background, I’m Hailey Tagliarino, the Assistant Managing Editor at The Everygirl. I thrive on crafting content that connects with readers on many levels. When I’m not busy at my desk, I can usually be found cheering for the Buffalo Bills with my friends, exploring new breweries in Fort Collins, or soaking up sunshine on a beach trip with family.

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