When discharged from the hospital, the certificate or discharge epicrisis indicates recommendations for caring for a newborn baby. When the baby is fine, the advice is usually brief "breastfeeding, bathing, walking." And if everything is more or less clear with bathing and feeding, then walking with a newborn raises many questions: when to start, how long to walk and what to wear? And does a tiny baby really need walks, which can be lurked on the street by infections, drafts and toxic exhaust fumes? The answer is really simple - no doubt.
Perhaps not all places in the city are suitable for walking with a recently born baby. Nevertheless, the importance of open air (even if not too fresh) and sunlight cannot be overestimated. Although the opinions of doctors about the duration of the walks of the newborn and their expediency, the traditions of care and education should not be taken into account.
The immunity of the child must be consistently strengthened, but if you grow it in greenhouse conditions, you can achieve the exact opposite result. Therefore, regular stay with the baby in the air is the key to his future health.
Why walks are needed
To dispel doubts about the indisputable benefits of walking, you should listen to the following arguments:
- Even if the family lives in a big city, the oxygen content in the open air is still much higher than in an apartment, where it is “eaten up” by heating and enclosed space. Due to the constant lack of oxygen, children sleep worse and lose their appetite.
- The mechanisms of thermoregulation of a newborn baby are imperfect: fresh air and differences between room and street temperatures help to improve their work, as well as strengthen the immune system.
- For the proper formation of musculoskeletal and nervous systems vitamin D is needed, especially its variety cholecalciferol (also known as vitamin D3). It is practically not present in food, but is formed in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Walking allows the baby to get the dose of vitamin necessary for the body even on a cloudy day.
- Long walks in the fresh air strengthen the mother's body and allow her to quickly get in shape after childbirth.
And, finally, walking with newborn children is a great opportunity to get close to the same mothers and find new friends!
For various reasons, some mothers replace walks with sleeping on the balcony, which causes a lot of controversy among both pediatricians and parents. Among the arguments against such a replacement are a reduced flow of fresh air, a lack of sunlight, and most importantly, the child gets used to sleeping in a stroller, which in the future can lead to problems with the baby’s sleep in the crib. Nevertheless, the air on the balcony is much cleaner, since exhaust gases do not rise there, and if it is not glazed, then ultraviolet radiation will be quite enough for the baby. Walking on the balcony is acceptable if the family lives on the upper floors, in houses without an elevator, or there is no one to help mom carry and bring the stroller. However, if there are still assistants, and the mother has chosen a light stroller or sling, it’s definitely worth going for a walk - this is a guarantee of the baby’s health in the future.
When and how much to walk
Many doctors recommend starting walks with the baby immediately after discharge from the hospital. However, for reasons of prevention, it is recommended to wait 5-7 days - if the child was born in the summer, or a couple of weeks - for babies born in the winter. If the temperature outside is below -10 degrees or above +30, strong wind or heavy rainfall, then with the first walk of the newborn it is also recommended to wait until more pleasant weather.
The duration of the walk, depending on the age of the baby, is shown in the table below. With each walk, it is desirable to increase the time spent on the street by 5-10 minutes a week.
| Age | Season | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter | |
| First walk | 10–15 minutes | 15–20 minutes | 10–12 minutes | 5–10 minutes |
| Week 1 | 25–35 minutes | 30–45 minutes | 20–25 minutes | 15–20 minutes |
| 1 month | 2 times for 50 minutes-1 hour | 2 times for 1–1.5 hours | 2 times for 40–50 minutes | 2 times for 30–40 minutes |
| 3 months | 2 times for 1.5–2 hours | 2 times for 2.5–3 hours | 2 times for 1-2 hours | 2 times for 1 hour |
| 6 months | 2 times for 2 hours | 2 times for 2 hours or 1 time for 4-5 hours | 2 times for 1 hour | 2 times for 1 hour |
| 1 year | 1-2 times for 2-3 hours | 2-3 times for 2-3 hours | 2 times for 1–1.5 hours | 1-2 times for 1-1.5 hours |
These figures are quite approximate, and may vary depending on weather conditions or the well-being of the baby. In winter snowstorms or severe frosts, going for a walk is not very reasonable, and with the advent of sunny and warm spring and summer days, you can spend all your free time outside.
A newborn during a walk most often sleeps: the movement lulls him. But as they grow older, the duration of wakefulness increases, and the baby looks with interest the world while sitting in a sling or looking at the stroller from the inside. A couple of months after birth, bright toys can be attached to the stroller: this will make walking more exciting for the child.
When the time has come to go outside with the baby and the weather is favorable for this, the mother will have to solve a rather difficult task for inexperienced parents - how to dress a newborn for a walk and what may be required with you?
As for clothes, pediatricians used to advise sticking to the classic “plus one” formula, when a child was put on one more layer of clothing than an adult. But thanks to the variety of styles of children's clothing and modern materials, from which it is sewn, equipment should be selected for the baby strictly individually and taking into account weather conditions.
Summer
At first it may seem that on warm days you can walk with your baby for as long as you like, summer weather can be fraught with many dangers for the crumbs: extreme heat can lead to overheating, and suddenly rising wind or heavy rain can lead to hypothermia and colds. That is why you need to prepare very carefully for the first walk with a newborn in the summer. The following tips may be helpful for this:
- The optimal set of walking clothes for a baby may consist of a vest and sliders, a slip (thin overalls with long sleeves), a dress or bodysuit with short sleeves, shorts and socks. However, a hat is desirable in any case, even if the baby is in a stroller.
- The only possible material for baby clothing is pure cotton, which breathes well, does not cause allergies and maintains a comfortable heat exchange for the child.
- The best colors for a baby's summer clothes are white, blue, pale pink, cream, but it is better to choose a snow-white cap or panama hat: the reflective properties of the color will prevent overheating and heat stroke.
- Blouses and sliders for summer walks should be very high quality sewn, without coarse seams and applications that can rub and cause discomfort to the baby.
- If the first walk of a newborn in the summer is planned in a sling, then the baby should be dressed lighter: the high air temperature and the warmth of the mother's body can provoke overheating. The child will be quite comfortable in a sling even in one cap and a diaper, but a sleeveless bodysuit or a thin T-shirt should still be worn. It is advisable to take a sleepsuit or sliders with you for a walk in case the baby needs to be taken out of the sling. As for the color of the sling, it should only be light: a dark fabric that absorbs the sun will create a very heavy atmosphere for the baby.
- You can check how well the baby is dressed by touching his neck: it should only be warm, a hot neck fold indicates a rise in temperature or overheating, and a cold one indicates that the baby is cold.
A summer walk with a newborn is not complete without a pair of diapers, a spare diaper and a blouse with long sleeve, as well as a warm blanket that will help protect the baby in case of a sudden change in the weather.
It should be remembered that the most comfortable air temperature for a newborn is + 23-25 degrees. At temperatures above +30, it is recommended to postpone the walk until coolness sets in.
Autumn-spring period
It is not easy for mothers of babies born in spring or autumn to choose clothes for walking, because the weather at this time is so changeable. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of any unforeseen situations. The following tips will help to collect the "autumn" or "spring" baby for a walk:
- On warm May or September days, the baby should not be wrapped up: if the temperature is not lower than +10, he will be comfortable in a long-sleeved vest or thin blouse, thin autumn overalls and one warm hat.
- If it gets colder outside to +5 and below, you need to add a thin hat to the baby’s street outfit, which is worn under a warm one, and change the autumn overalls to the winter ones.
- For walks in a sling, it is not necessary to “warm” the baby much: it will be warmed by mother's warmth. In early autumn or late spring days, a tight summer walking overall over a bodysuit and a blouse or slip will be enough for him, and in cold weather - an autumn overall and one hat.
- Warmth for the child should be provided by the layering of the outfit, and not by the thickness of one overalls: it is better to remove an extra blouse from the baby than to make him sweat in hot winter outerwear.
- It is recommended to take a thin blanket or blanket for a walk in order to wrap the baby in strong winds.
A great option for the off-season is a transforming jumpsuit with a detachable warm lining. During warming it can be removed, and the ability to turn clothes into an envelope for walking with a newborn will help protect the baby from hypothermia.
Winter
Walking in winter is not always pleasant for mom, but it is very useful for the baby. For those who want to make walking with a newborn comfortable and safe, the following tips will come in handy:
- In winter, it is recommended to dress the baby in 3 layers of clothing: a slip or bodysuit with long sleeves, fleece overalls and a warm envelope or overalls with sheepskin lining.
- You will need two caps for the baby: a thin cap and a warm winter cap.
- The best materials for the nursery winter clothes- cotton, fleece, wool, and for overalls - modern fabrics based on membrane technology.
- A warm blanket should be in the stroller throughout the winter season: they can protect the baby from wind and snowstorms.
- Mothers who have chosen a sling for wearing babies should carefully consider the selection of overalls: the most suitable set will be a jacket and pants with straps, which are best worn over the jacket: in this case, the clothes will not ride up, and the baby will not blow.
- On a walk, you should carefully monitor the condition of the newborn, periodically feeling the neck and forehead: if the child sweats and turns red, he is hot, and a cold nose and hiccups indicate not hypothermia and the need to urgently go home.
Also, do not forget about mom's clothes: high heels, tight outfits, long coats and fur coats are not a very comfortable option for walking with a baby. Comfortable, light and warm clothes in a casual or sports style, a stable heel or shoes without it, as well as gloves and a hat in the cold (even if mom preferred not to wear them before), will make walks equally pleasant for both mom and baby, they will give both health and good mood.
Specialist's recommendations on what should be the first walks of the baby
Answers
While waiting for a child future mom and has no idea how many questions she might have. With normal childbirth, the newly-made parent with the baby is discharged from the maternity ward on the 5-10th day. This day becomes the first when the crumb gets on the street. This article will discuss how much to walk with a newborn. You will learn the features of walking in different time of the year. It is also worth mentioning how much you need to walk with a newborn.
Doctors' opinions
How long can you walk with a newborn and when is the best time to start? Doctors do not have consensus on this occasion. Some pediatricians say that air baths should be taken immediately after. Other doctors strongly recommend waiting two weeks. The third group of pediatricians assures that it is possible to take the baby for a walk no earlier than in a month. What about young parents? How much to walk with a newborn and when to start?
First walk (excerpt)
How long to walk with a newborn for the first time? Your first exit to the street will take place on the territory. The walk will end when you get home. That is why there are no strict restrictions. However, you should not immediately go from the hospital to the park or shopping centers. The baby is still very small and weak for such walks. Try to get home as soon as possible.
How much to walk with a newborn for the first and subsequent times?
When you decide that the child is strong enough, you can go outside. Taking the first air baths after discharge should last no more than a quarter of an hour. Be sure to monitor the baby's reaction during this period of time. Dress it up so that the baby does not freeze. Overheating will also have a bad effect on the health of the child.
If the first experience was successful, then how long can you walk with a newborn for the second time? Doctors say that every day you can add 10 minutes. So, for the second time you can be on the street for about half an hour. At the same time, you also need to observe the actions of the crumbs.
Gradually, by the second month of life, the duration of such walks can be increased to 3-4 hours. Closer to six months, fresh air is allowed throughout the day. However, it must be remembered that the baby should not freeze or overcool. Also, the child needs to be fed in a timely manner, which is not always possible in public places.
Summer walks
After how much you can walk with a newborn - you already know. If the baby tolerates being outdoors well, then how should walks be carried out in the summer?
Doctors say that you need to go out in the morning. If the child wakes up early, then walking with him is quite acceptable from 8 to 10 in the morning. During this period of time, there is still no scorching and sultry sun that can harm the baby's skin. In the period from 12 to 16 hours, it is better to refrain from walking. If you really want, you can take air baths in the shade.
After 17-18 hours you can also go outside. After the baby will eat better and sleep at night. Walking with the baby at this time costs from one to two hours.
Walking with a child in autumn
This period of time (when it is not yet cold, but not hot anymore) allows you to be outside all day. At the same time, your baby should be healthy, dry and fed.
Some mothers argue that a walk with a newborn should not exceed three hours. However, it is not. The longer your baby will be in the fresh air, the stronger his immunity will be in the future.
winter walks
How long do they walk with a newborn in the cold season? Pediatricians strongly do not recommend going outside before the baby reaches two weeks of age. Each walk should not last more than 30 minutes.
Doctors say that you can go outside several times a day. In total, the time spent outdoors should be from one and a half to three hours. Be careful not to freeze the baby. Always take a warm blanket or blanket with you. Even if you go outside for 10 minutes.
When the air temperature is below 15, you should not leave the house with a newborn baby. If this temperature in your area is kept long time, then you can replace the usual stay on the street by sleeping on or on the veranda.
How long can you walk with a newborn in the spring?
If we are talking about a cold and rainy March, then you should not be outside for more than 10 minutes on your first walk. This time is quite enough to get a portion of oxygen and cool down a bit. The time of the next walk should not be doubled. This is only allowed in warm weather at a comfortable air temperature. Go out with your child several times a day for 10 minutes. This schedule should be followed for at least a week. After that, add another 10 minutes to your air baths. As soon as it gets warmer outside, you can safely increase the duration of your stay in the fresh air.
In late spring (May) you should stick to the walking schedule described for the summer. Usually during this period it is already quite hot during the day, but still cool in the morning and evening. Do not go out all day and walk without a break. For sure in the morning hours you will dress your child in clothes that will be hot for daytime sleep in the air. Be sure to take breaks. Come home to change and feed the baby.
Walking after illness
How long can you walk with a newborn in the spring if he has had a viral or bacterial disease? During the period of exacerbation of symptoms, doctors generally do not recommend going outside. The slightest draft or hypothermia can provoke the occurrence of pathological complications. It is allowed to walk with the baby only after his complete recovery. Even if the baby no longer has elevated temperature a few days, but he is still coughing and snotty, then postpone the walk. However, fresh air during this period is simply necessary for the child. Ventilate the room, but avoid having the child in the room at this moment.
The first walks after an illness should last about half an hour. If there is no deterioration in well-being, then increase the time of each walk by 10-15 minutes, gradually approaching your usual time.
Summing up, or Brief conclusion of the article
So, you have learned how much you need to walk with a newborn baby in different periods. If the baby was born prematurely, then all these rules do not apply to him. In this case, you should consult a pediatrician. Only a doctor can decide how much and when you can walk with your child. You may need to wait more than one month. Stick to the tips above. Health to you and your baby!
Winter walks in the fresh air bring many benefits to children: they strengthen the immune system, temper, improve appetite and sleep, and contribute to the knowledge of the world around them. In the cold season, it is necessary to dress properly in order to prevent hypothermia of the baby. Qualified specialists of the online store "Daughters-sons" will help you choose clothes for winter walks.
How long can you walk with a child in winter?
It is necessary to go outside with a baby from the first weeks of his life. If the weather is calm and the temperature is above zero, you need to walk every day. The main thing is to constantly monitor the condition and behavior of the baby in order to avoid hypothermia.
Time must be calculated taking into account the age of the baby and the weather. The first 2-3 exits with a newborn should last no more than 20 minutes. Then the duration of stay on the street is gradually increased to 1-1.5 hours. You can walk with a baby, provided that the temperature has not dropped below -5 ° C. On calm days, you can go out for a while at -10 ° C.
How much a child should walk in winter depends on:
- his age;
- weather conditions;
- the state of health and well-being of the baby;
- quantity and quality of clothes worn;
- motor activity;
- number of walks per day.
In frosty walks it is better to shorten. You can break the exercise into two times - half an hour before lunch and another 30-40 minutes after. To make the little man comfortable, he should be dressed in windproof and waterproof overalls with a hood, warm socks and a hat. Under the second layer of clothing, it is recommended to put on a warm undershirt or sweater. Winter boots or boots are perfect as shoes.
You should not buy clothes made of synthetic fabrics, you can sweat and freeze in it, choose sets made from natural materials.
Important!
In a baby under 3 years old, the body is not yet adapted to thermoregulation and the manifestation of a feeling of cold, so he needs constant monitoring of body temperature. Usually mothers touch their nose, if it is cold, then it's time to go home. With strong gusts of wind and -10 ° C, it is better not to go outside.
conclusions
How long should you walk with your child in winter? The time depends on the age of the baby, his well-being and the weather. From the first year of life, it is necessary to spend in the fresh air up to 2 hours, after 3 years - about 3-4 hours a day. Time must be increased gradually. It is better to go outside twice a day. If you choose the right clothes, then even frosts down to -15-20 ° C will not scare you, although at this temperature the time spent outside is reduced to 20-30 minutes.
The first walk with a newborn is an exciting event, even though young parents receive certificates and advice on raising and caring for the baby when they are discharged from the maternity hospital. If with breastfeeding and hygiene procedures are clear, then walks raise many questions and doubts. Especially young mothers do not know what to do in winter. Is it possible to walk in the cold season? When to take the baby outside? How to dress? How many minutes or hours should a walk with a newborn take?
However, winter is not the only time of the year to pay attention to. All 365 days a child can be exposed to such external irritants as exhaust gases, snow, rain, wind, sun, heat, dust, dirt, etc. Isn't this dangerous for a newly born baby and why go outside? Let's figure it out.
Benefits and travel times
Of course, various natural influences await the baby on the street, but this is even good. Immunity from the first days of life must adapt to environment so strengthen it with walks - the best solution. Everyone without exception knows about the benefits of fresh air and sunlight, and this applies not only to children, but also to adults.
At what age do you start walking? Many doctors recommend leaving the walls of the apartment almost immediately after discharge from the hospital. If the baby was born in the summer, then you should wait a week, and if in the winter - two weeks.
The total duration of the walk varies depending on the age of the crumbs, the approximate time is presented in the table below:
| Age | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First walk | 10–15 min. | 15–20 min. | 10–12 min. | 5–10 min. |
| Week 1 | 25–35 min. | 30–45 min. | 20–25 min. | 15–20 min. |
| 1 month | 2 times for 50-60 minutes. | 2 times for 1–1.5 hours | 2 times for 40-50 minutes. | 2 times for 30-40 minutes. |
| 3 months | 2 times for 1.5–2 hours | 2 times for 2.5–3 hours | 2 times for 1-2 hours | 2 times for 1 hour |
| 6 months | 2 times for 2 hours | 2 times for 2 hours or 1 time for 4-5 hours | 2 times for 1 hour | 2 times for 1 hour |
| 12 months | 1-2 times for 2-3 hours | 2-3 times for 2-3 hours | 2 times for 1–1.5 hours | 1-2 times for 1-1.5 hours |
We can talk endlessly about the usefulness of walking:
In addition, walking is also useful for mom: improving lactation, normalizing blood pressure. It is also kind of physical exercise, which perfectly help to bring the figure in order after childbirth, unwind and improve oxygen supply in the body. New acquaintances on playgrounds or in parks with the same mothers with strollers are another plus. Common topics for conversation will help you find good friends with whom you can then be friends with families.
Dear reader!
This article talks about typical ways solutions to your questions, but each case is unique! If you want to know how to solve your particular problem - ask your question. It's fast and free!
It happens that the weather outside the window does not allow you to leave the house for a long time, for example, when the temperature is below -10 or above +30 degrees. Then the young parents decide to "walk" the child on the balcony. On the one hand, this is a good decision, because being within four walls for several days is not a good thing. On the other hand, many mothers begin to like this way of “walking”, the baby usually sleeps in the fresh air and does not interfere with anyone. However, he should not get used to sleeping in a stroller, otherwise there may be problems with putting him to bed in the future. The baby will be capricious and ask for air, you will have to open the windows and create a draft in the apartment.
If mommy is tired or very busy, the baby's daytime sleep can be arranged on the balcony
If, nevertheless, the weather conditions are favorable and you went for a walk, you should follow a few rules:
- Do not walk on an empty stomach, especially since it will not be possible to attach a child to the breast on the street. Feed in advance. In addition, in the fresh air, a well-fed baby sleeps better and, accordingly, is less naughty. For yourself, you can take fruit or sandwiches, although it is also better to eat before a walk. Then there will be enough water or juice.
- Do not leave the stroller in the heat, but you should not stand idle for a long time in the shade. Warm weather with soft sunshine is the perfect time. Each season has its own rules.
- sick child (especially high temperature) is strictly prohibited. Heal first, otherwise aggravate the situation. The disease will take longer and more difficult. However, after treatment, it is imperative to restore walks, since clean fresh air contributes to recovery, especially in case of respiratory diseases: it helps to thin the mucus.
- Walk in parks, squares and coniferous forests. Avoid noisy places, as the baby may be frightened by loud noises. The quietest hours are in the morning from 9 to 12 and in the evening after 19:00. Accustom to street noise gradually.
Monitor your baby's well-being. It can freeze or, conversely, sweat, so dress for a walk always according to the weather.
Do not overheat - the same important task as not to "freeze" the crumbs. Dress the child according to the weather, guided by the rule: clothes "as for yourself" + 1 layer
How to dress and what to take?
Another important question tormenting mothers: Layering used to be the norm, but now manufacturers offer a wide range of children's clothing made from special materials suitable for certain weather conditions. These are jackets, and overalls, and hats. The main thing is that the child should be both warm and not too hot at the same time.
Be sure to bring a diaper, a pacifier, a handkerchief, a bottle of water, and a toy. If the baby wakes up and wants to be naughty, you can temporarily captivate him with his favorite toy, and in the frosty season close his mouth with a dummy. This will prevent cold air from entering, which can cause a cold. During the warm season pure water will help quench your thirst. This is where a diaper is needed, because the baby still does not know how to control its natural processes, and no one likes to sleep in dirty and wet.
It is worth taking a book or a magazine for yourself to sit on a bench in the park, because reading in the open air has always been considered the best pastime. You can carefully put all the necessary things in an envelope or a special bag on the stroller, if any. By the way, it is not necessary to walk with a stroller. If the physical condition of the mother allows, then you can walk around the yard with the baby in your arms for several minutes or just sit on a bench.
Physical contact between mother and baby is always welcome!
Summer walks
If the baby was born in the summer, then after being discharged from the hospital, it is worth adapting for 6-7 days before going out for a walk (see also:). Although some modern doctors claim that you can walk on the same day. For example, before getting into the car, walk around the maternity hospital for 10 minutes. The recommended air temperature is not higher than +30 degrees, and the humidity is not more than 80%. Of the basic rules, the following should be highlighted:
- Clothing should be comfortable, soft and made of pure cotton. Babies may be allergic to synthetic materials. In addition, synthetics prevent proper heat transfer and do not absorb sweat. It is better to buy a more expensive thing once than to suffer for a long time with skin irritation and constant crying because something itches.
- An ideal set of clothes - vests, sliders, a hat, shorts with a T-shirt or T-shirt, socks. Before buying things, pay attention to the quality of seams and applications. Incorrect and rough firmware can rub, interfere and cause discomfort to the baby.
- Summer reflective colors - white, pink and blue. In the heat, light shades will help to avoid sunstroke and overheating. The dark fabric quickly absorbs the sun's rays and creates a heavy atmosphere in the stroller. It is allowed to use baby creams with sun protection function.
- You need to start with 10 minutes of being outdoors and gradually increase to 2 hours. Ideally, walks should be organized every day in the morning and evening. Lunch is usually the hottest time of the day. At this point, it is better to arrange rest or feeding, i.e. sit at home.
In the summer the weather can be changeable, so be sure to bring a blanket or jacket in case it rains unexpectedly or strong winds rise. You can check the comfort of the baby by the neck: if it is hot - overheating, and if it is cold - hypothermia. The main thing is not to wrap too much so that the child can move or at least turn his head.
Summer weather can be deceiving - always carry baby sunscreen and extra clothing
Autumn-spring walks
The most unpredictable weather occurs in autumn and spring. In foggy and windy weather, guessing with clothes can be very difficult. If the temperature is not lower than +10 degrees, then you can walk lightly, for example, in thin overalls and a hat.
If the thermometer shows +5 and below, then we warm ourselves with a thick jacket or sling. By the way, a sling is a great solution for autumn. No need to take a mountain of warm clothes with you and worry that the baby will freeze. He can always be warmed by his maternal warmth.
A special children's raincoat is very convenient, which completely covers the stroller and saves the baby from a sudden onset of rain. Mom also needs to take care of her health and take an umbrella just in case. All this does not take up much space in the bag and allows you to get home dry. However, walking in the rain is not worth it. The raincoat creates a kind of greenhouse effect, and when you are in the stroller for a long time, it becomes stuffy and hot.
winter walks
If the baby was born in winter, then walks will have to wait. The first acquaintance with nature should take place no earlier than in two or three weeks, but how long can you walk with a newborn in this case? The duration of a walk with a newborn baby and its benefits are primarily affected by the temperature outside the window:
- If by the day of the first "outing" the temperature is about + 5 ° C, then you can walk for 10 minutes, increasing the time by 5 - 7 minutes daily, gradually bringing the duration of the winter walk to 1 hour.
- When the winter air temperature drops to -10°C, it is better for a newborn to be outside for 5 minutes for the first time, but no more than half an hour later. Red cheeks in a baby can be a sign that the baby is very hot.
- When outside the window hard frost, below 15 ° C, it is better not to leave the house with a child and take breaks in the festivities. In such a situation, it is necessary to ventilate the room several times a day and wet cleaning.
Winter walks with the baby are a necessary part of his development, since fresh air in the "diet" must be present every day, regardless of the weather. The right selection of children's things will help make a winter walk truly fun and enjoyable.
It is advisable to walk twice a day, for example, before lunch and in the late afternoon. This applies to already adapted children. For beginners, in the first few weeks, being out of the house should not exceed 10 minutes. In winter, it is important to observe another rule: first the mother gets dressed, and then the baby. Sweating is a matter of minutes, but then it takes weeks to heal.
We will give a few more tips that will be useful to mothers of "winter" babies:
- Walking with a child in the cold will be pleasant if you pick up a good stroller. The issue of choosing a baby stroller should be approached responsibly and done even during pregnancy. When choosing a stroller, first of all, look at the wheels - they must be with shock absorbers, as well as on the inner surface of the cradle - it must be flat, with a flat bottom. Separately, it is worth buying a walking mattress in the stroller.
- A transforming jumpsuit with a detachable warm lining is very useful. Such overalls are warm and practical, they reliably protect all parts of the body from chapping and hypothermia. In addition, they are quickly and easily converted into an envelope. This useful feature makes it easy to undress the baby, even when he is sleeping. The jumpsuit can then be used in the autumn-spring period.
- 15-20 minutes before going out, spread the baby's face with a special baby cream that protects the skin from frost. Carefully read the annotation to what temperature this product is intended.
Don't use regular baby moisturizer or zinc because they don't protect your baby's delicate skin from cold temperatures. Do not forget to also conduct an “anti-allergy” test: apply the cream on the child’s wrist in advance, evaluate the skin reaction after 20 minutes and after a day. If the skin "reacted" normally, then the cream is suitable.
- As for the baby's clothes, remember that they should not sit tight (this also applies to envelopes, and overalls, and even a warm swaddling blanket). It is important that there is an air gap between the layers of clothing, and that the baby can freely move his arms and legs - all this is a natural thermal insulation.
- The important point is that the child should not scream while walking, so as not to overcool the upper respiratory tract. You can solve this problem by taking a pacifier or a bottle of warm water with you. To keep warm will help: a self-heating bottle, a thermos or a cooler bag that maintains the temperature of the water.
Swaddling in a blanket is a great way to keep your little one warm. In the process of wrapping, you need to make sure that the blanket does not pull the body, and the baby can freely move his legs
Signs of overheating and frostbite
An older baby does not need so many clothes, as he moves a lot and is unlikely to freeze. Make sure that things do not hinder movement, as tight clothing interferes with normal blood circulation, the risk of frostbite increases, and there will be no benefit from walking. After you have dressed the baby and went out into the fresh air, do not forget to monitor his well-being, paying attention to whether he is sweating or cold.
The child is fine if:
- cheeks ruddy, but not red;
- nose and cheeks slightly warm;
- arms and back are cool, not cold;
- there are no complaints from the child himself and he does not cry.
Signs that your child is very cold may include:
- a red nose on a pale face with pale cheeks;
- cold hands and neck;
- cold legs - as a rule, hypothermia is felt first of all on the legs;
- if the child is crying.
Signs that a child is hot are:
- warm red cheeks at -10°C outdoor temperature;
- wet body;
- hot hands and sweaty feet.
A warm jumpsuit combined with a hat is a great way to completely protect your child from frost even on the coldest day. Such a kit should not be used during warming, so that the baby does not sweat on a walk.
When the baby is overcooled or he is very hot, he urgently needs to be taken home. First, evaluate the condition of the legs. If they are very cold, it is worth putting on another warm socks, if the legs are wet, change the socks to plain cotton ones. If the cheeks are red, smear them with cream.
Walk on the balcony
In bad weather, you can’t walk with a baby, but fresh air is needed every day. Dr. Komarovsky insists that in this case, the baby should be put to sleep on the balcony, and during this time the mother will have time to do household chores or also relax. However, not every balcony will useful alternative street. It is important to consider some features:
- The balcony must be glazed. Drafts, dust and unexpected loud noises can adversely affect your baby's health. In addition, a bird, insect or debris (cigarette butt, candy wrapper, seed husk) from the upper floors can fly in.
- The first and second floors are immediately excluded, since cars also drive in the yard and the child will not breathe fresh air, but exhaust gases. There are even cases when a soccer ball flies into the balcony from the street. A child can suffer not only from a blow, but also from broken glass. Ideal to live on 4-5 floors.
- You need to dress the same as for a street walk. The window on the balcony will be ajar, and the baby can easily catch a cold or overheat, depending on the weather.
Do not leave the newborn alone for a long time, or at least check his condition more often. A walk on the balcony can last up to 2 hours, but you should not abuse it in this way. In good weather, going out with a stroller to the park is the duty of every mother. Plus, it's good for her too. An exception may be the lack of an elevator, when a mother who has not recovered from a difficult birth is not able to drag the stroller up the stairs alone. In this case, no balcony will be very useful. E. O. Komarovsky in his book "The Beginning of Life", emphasizes that in the first 3-4 months of walking on the balcony - best option both for the baby and for his mother.
How to swaddle a baby for a walk?
Quite tiny ones can be swaddled with a simple blanket, but not very tight! How to properly wrap a baby:
Winter walks with a child. What could be nicer for a new mom? During the walk, the woman can relax and unwind, while the baby usually sleeps peacefully in the stroller. However, parents often have a question: how much to walk with a newborn in winter? That is what this article will answer. You will learn about the features of this process. You can also find out how long it takes to walk with a newborn in winter after discharge from the maternity hospital.
Benefits of walking for young children
The question, in winter, many couples do not even ask. They are sure that such walks are dangerous for the baby. That is why they prefer to sit at home until the baby reaches the age of 3 months. By that time, spring is already here. However, this tactic is wrong.
Experts say that children need walks at any time of the year. After all, on the street, kids breathe fresh air. In the frosty winter time, it is especially useful, as it is devoid of any viruses and bacteria. You don't have to worry about your child getting sick. Just the opposite. With such walks, you can increase the baby's immunity. However, you should always remember how and how much to walk with a newborn in winter. If this question worries you, then be sure to ask your pediatrician. The doctor will dispel your doubts and give the necessary recommendations.
First walk
How long can you walk with a newborn in winter? If the baby was born in the cold season, then your first walk will take place when you are discharged from the maternity hospital. Usually, the crumb stays on the street for a short time. By the time mom gets to the car and enters the house, it will only take a couple of minutes. This is quite enough for a week-old baby.
This walk does not take into account the temperature of the air. After all, in any weather, you need to somehow leave the hospital. That is why it is worth taking care of warm clothes for the crumbs. It must suit your climate. If the winters are harsh and outside the window the temperature drops to -30 degrees, then you should not choose thin envelopes with ruffles. Prepare a thick blanket, a blanket and a few flannelette diapers. Don't forget about socks and a hat for the crumbs.
When and for how long to leave the house?
How long can you walk with a newborn baby in winter? After that, doctors advise immediately starting walks, while gradually increasing their duration. The first exit to the street can last from 5 to 10 minutes. After that, it is advisable to go into the room and on this day no longer walk. Closely monitor the child's condition. If everything went well, then the next day the time spent on the street can be increased.
The next walk may be 10 minutes longer. In other words, you are allowed to walk for 15 to 20 minutes already. This time, it is advisable to take a stroller with you, because every mom wants to quickly ride the baby in it.
Premature babies and features of walking with them
How much to walk with a newborn in winter if he was born with a small weight? In this situation, the situation is somewhat different. Experts give other recommendations. There is a big difference in whether your baby was born prematurely, or if he just has a small weight. Children weighing less than 3 kilograms are not recommended to go outside at temperatures below 5 degrees. If the baby is premature, then it is worth starting walks only at positive temperatures. At the same time, for the first time, just go out onto the balcony.
How do doctors explain such restrictions? The fact is that in small children thermoregulation is poorly established. The smaller the mass and fat layer the baby has, the easier it is for him to freeze. If you do not want hypothermia, then it is better to sit at home for several weeks until the moment when the baby becomes stronger.
Children's clothes for a walk in the cold season
How much time to walk with a newborn in winter? A lot depends on how you dress your child. At temperatures from 0 to minus 5 degrees, it is recommended that the duration of the walk be no more than 60 minutes (taking into account the fact that this is not the first time you leave the house). In this case, it is worth dressing the child in warm flannel or flannelette fabrics. A second layer of clothing must go on top - warmer. A windproof overall or blanket completes the set.
When outside the window the temperature is below 10 degrees, make sure that the baby does not stay outside for more than 30 minutes. His clothes should have 4 layers. First comes a light cotton fabric, then a warmer diaper (bare or flannel). Next, put on a jumpsuit or an envelope, and completes all this blanket.
When it is colder than minus 15 degrees outside, you should not go out with a baby at all. Stay at home and ventilate the room more often. if you have glazed balcony, then you can take out the crumbs there. Be aware of the relationship between clothing and air temperature.
Walking after vaccinations
How long can you walk with a newborn in winter if the child has been vaccinated? The first vaccination of babies is usually done at the age of one month. After vaccination, the immunity of the crumbs is greatly reduced. That is why doctors sometimes do not recommend moms to take the kids outside.
If the child was vaccinated, then on this day your walk should be limited to the road from the clinic home. Going out is not recommended. After vaccination, carefully monitor the condition of the baby. If you feel unwell or your body temperature rises, then you should stay at home for another three days. Call a doctor if necessary. As soon as the consequences of the vaccination are over, you can safely go outside. In this case, there is no need for a phased increase in time. If you have already walked with the crumbs for up to one hour, then continue to do so. Consider temperatures.
After illness
How long do you need to walk with a newborn in winter if the baby has had SARS? During the period of illness, it is completely worth refusing to walk. When it comes to a common cold without additional symptoms, then you can go out. However, the air temperature should not be below zero.
If the child has a fever, cough and other symptoms, then you should stay at home until you are fully recovered. After eliminating all signs of illness, go without walking for a few more days. After this, the newborn can be taken outside with a gradual increase in time, as described above.
What do the doctors say?
How long should you walk with a newborn in winter, according to neonatologists and experienced pediatricians? Doctors say that walking is very useful for the crumbs and contributes to it. proper development. After the street, the baby's appetite increases, mood improves, sleep normalizes. During exposure to the sun, vitamin D is actively produced, which helps to fully absorb calcium. Also, this substance prevents the appearance of rickets.
Doctors advise starting walks with a newborn baby immediately after discharge from the maternity hospital (provided that there are no restrictions and the baby feels good). If the temperature is positive outside, then in a few days you can bring your stay with the baby in the fresh air up to two hours. Divide this time into several parts or arrange one big walk.
Experts recommend monitoring not only the baby during a walk. Breastfeeding mothers also need special attention. IN winter time it is very good to hide the chest. Otherwise, you may catch a cold. If mastitis has developed, then it is better for mommy and baby to stay at home. After the woman has fully recovered, you can continue walking in the usual way.
