Outings with 1 Year olds

This blog post probably only applies to you if you're located where whether outside isn't frightening - brrr...as it is in New York! The first tip talks about an outdoor activity, so if you're in California, you might be able to implement it now.

This is what Jennifer Walker, pediatric nurse, mom of 3, and co-founder of "Moms on Call," http://www.momsoncall.com/, suggests regarding outings with 1 year olds. Walker is also an instructor in the online seminars that can be downloaded on the "Moms on Call" web site that are geared for parents of toddlers and parents of babies. I am currently in the midst of watching the "'Moms on Call' Online Toddler Seminar" and getting some great tips on handling tantrums with my "Terrible Two" year old.

And now...Let's hear from Jennifer:

"Outings with one year olds

There are some great inexpensive ways to entertain them as well as satisfy the inner explorer.

Taking a stroll on an outdoor trail gives toddlers a chance to explore but keeps them in sight. For the walkers, they amazingly will stay on the path. It is great because they can decide which direction to go - forward or backward and they love the chance to be the leader.

It is also fun for them to collect items from the trail such as leaves and rocks to make crafts out of later or simply for experiencing the enjoyment of picking up rocks and putting them in a baggie. This simple act will thrill most little ones.

Just be careful that none of those rocks make it in their mouth!

One year olds also enjoy botanical gardens. The local gardens provide great colors and textures. Take your one year old and let them feel the different textures of the leaves and flowers. Are they soft or scratchy? This is a great place to point out and identify colors and count how many flowers are on a particular plant..

Indoors, toddlers love opportunities to have some freedom, so going to the local tennis court with several tennis balls for them to chase and throw goes a long way and helps improve their coordination. You can also bring a beach ball and play with them on the large indoor court or indoor gym area. Bring some wipes for those crawlers so you can wash their hands when you are done."