You know that old wives’ tale about staying inside with the newborn? Funny thing is, no one ever says when it’s safe to go back out into the world.
With my first child, a son, we stayed inside for what felt like forever. I had six months of maternity leave and absolutely nowhere to go. Besides the few doctor visits, it was just us and four walls.
One day I felt stir-crazy. It had started to rain, so I bundled him in blankets, set a chair on the front porch, and sat out to watch the storm. It felt so good just to see trees, cars…hell, other people. The chill in the air and the sound of rain put him right to sleep. I was nervous about having him outside, but I figured it couldn’t hurt. It was just us.
Another month passed and summer rolled in. One morning I packed the stroller, buckled him in, and drove to the park. On that first walk, I checked on him every couple of minutes, but he slept peacefully. I got to move my body, to put all that energy somewhere. Again, I was nervous…but I figured it was safe.
At the park I saw other parents and children, and I knew it would become a place I’d return to.
A couple months later I tried the baby swing. Looking back at those photos, he was so tiny. I can’t tell if he enjoyed it, but I did. I was happy to be around people, and I got those first swing pictures every parent treasures.
Slowly, I started taking him everywhere…back to the park, to parties, to stores. Always cautious, always noticing if someone looked sick. He was okay. In fact, he didn’t get sick for the first time until a month after his first birthday.
Looking back now, I’m glad I got out of the house. Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are real, and even with a spouse you can feel so alone with a newborn.
With my second baby, a daughter this time, I didn’t really have a choice. Groceries had to be bought. Her brother had to be cared for. Sometimes, I just needed air. The difference is, this time I knew more. I stick to open spaces, avoid crowded indoor places, at least until she has her first shots.
And I remind myself, all the time: we’re learning this parenting thing as we go. Give yourself some grace. You’re doing the best you can.
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