By Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H.
One of the best ways to have a successful outing with a little one is to be prepared with a well stocked diaper bag. The items you pack will change, depending on the outing and the age of your child. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Changing pad
- Plastic bags
- Change of clothes
- Diaper rash cream
- Bottles
- Blanket
- Pacifier
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Toys/books
As your baby grows into a toddler and begins to feed himself, you may want to pack:
- Sippy cup
- Bib
- Fork/spoon
- Snacks
If your child is learning to use the toilet, you will no longer need to carry diapers. You will want a change or two of clothing, including an extra pair of socks and shoes, as well as wipes and plastic bags, in case of accidents.
Behavior tends to deteriorate when children get bored, so having things on hand to keep them busy is a good idea whether you are standing in line at the grocery store or enjoying dinner at a restaurant. Look for toys that are small, quiet, low-tech, age-appropriate and have few pieces, such as:
- Board books
- Rattles
- Squeaky toys
- Teethers
- Non-breakable mirrors
- Baby keys
- Dolls
- Crayons
- Paper/notebook
- Little people/animals/cars
Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H., is a Human Development Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program. She can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 330 or at kkr5@cornell.edu.