Fall is approaching, and it is the perfect time of year to spend time with your baby outdoors.  Along with the outdoor activity comes special consideration to grooming your baby.

Time outside is good for you.
Whether you sit in the front yard, go for a stroll, or play at the park, a little time outside is good for baby.  In small doses, sunlight promotes vitamin D production, improves sleep, and makes baby happy.   Fresh air creates a new breezy sensation on baby’s skin; while the many smells and sounds outside awaken his senses.

The key is limiting wind and sun exposure.
Although a little sun and wind is good for baby, too much of either can create a host of problems including chapped cheeks and sunburn.  When playing outside with baby, find shade where possible and use a bonnet or hat on a windy day.  Apply a little petroleum jelly to baby’s cheeks to provide some wind protection as well.

Exploring is messy.
Spending time outside means you and baby will likely find dirt.  Because baby likes to stick everything in his mouth, be sure to pay close attention to make sure he’s not clinching wads of gravel as he shoves his fist into his mouth!

When it’s time to head inside and wash hands for a snack, you may discover it’s pretty difficult to clean all the dirt from under his nails.  A quick nail trim may be helpful and will keep dirt from lodging under the nails when you head back out tomorrow.

Playtime leads to sleeptime.
Outdoor fun expends much more energy than indoor play.  Combine exercise with increased vitamin D and a warm bath, and your baby will be sleeping much more soundly.

After some sweaty playtime exploring the great outdoors, you may find baby bath is not strong enough to cut through the grimy hair.  Try using baby shampoo instead, particularly one with a detangler.  As your baby’s hair thickens and grows longer, it will be more susceptible to knots.  The detangler will help you comb through his hair more gently.

Keep it short and simple.
The easier outdoor fun is on you, the more often you will incorporate it into your routine.  You don’t need to pack a picnic and blanket and spend several hours in the park.  Make it as simple as stopping at the park for 20 minutes while you are out running errands.  A little outdoor playtime thrown in can make a day of grocery shopping and dry cleaning much more enjoyable.