Keeping babies busy can be difficult at the best of times, but if you have to self-isolate due to travel or illness during the pandemic, it is even more challenging. As lockdowns continue to sweep the nation and everyone is doing their best to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you may find your creativity running low, and your frustration levels high.
We have a few tips to help you plan your days and maximize bonding time when isolating with your baby.
Have daily routines.
Daily rhythms help both parents and babies feel safe and secure in their environment. Routines are a great way to build trust and help your baby understand what you expect of them throughout the day. Your baby’s emotional, cognitive, and social development will also benefit from routines. As your child learns to anticipate what comes next, their independence will grow.
Play outside together.
Do your best to spend time outside every day. Go for a walk, wear your baby in a carrier in the yard, build a house out of sticks, collect rocks, or play on your deck/patio if you do not have a yard. Talk to your baby about what you are hearing, seeing, and feeling together. Point out the dog walking by, talk about how the wind feels on your faces, pick up a leaf, catch a caterpillar. Spending time outside has numerous benefits, including improved immune function and enhanced moods.
Stay connected with family and friends.
Although it’s not the same as getting together in person, the ability to stay connected with loved ones via video, text, and phone is terrific. Zoom with your friends, Facetime with Grandma, or use funny filters on Snapchat to connect with cousins! There are so many ways to use technology to interact with others.
Exercise with your baby.
There are many fitness classes available that will allow you to get your workout done while also engaging with your baby. Dance together, search ‘mommy and me workout’ on YouTube, or try some fitness moves that use your baby as a weight.
Read stories and play games together.
Your baby loves to hear your voice. Reading and nursery rhymes increase literacy and help your baby to grow and develop.
Exersaucers, swings, and bouncy chairs, oh my!
We heart swings and bouncy chairs for younger babies. Exersaucers are fantastic for older babies. Let your little one entertain themselves while you look after other tasks close by or get down on the play mat and interact with them.
Wear your baby.
Pop baby into a comfortable carrier and go about your day. You can talk to them about all the things you are doing and sneak in kisses whenever you want to.
Learn a new language.
Have you explored baby sign language? Once you and your baby have learned a few signs, you can do games and activities together.
Self-care is essential.
If you’re feeling stressed out or bored yourself, your baby is going to pick up on that energy. Find ways to ensure you are meeting your own needs during isolation. If you have a partner, share household duties and infant care so that each of you can have time to yourself. Orange County still allow professional in-home support for infants during lockdowns, meaning newborn care and postpartum doula support is available! The doulas on our team have enhanced protocols and take special precautions to ensure your family’s health and safety.
Being stuck at home doesn’t have to be boring, even with a baby. Using your creativity and sticking to your daily routines, you’ll emerge from isolation feeling fresh and ready to get back out in the world.
