Activities for New Moms in Calgary
Sing to your baby, read to your baby, talk to your baby. Put her on her tummy, carry her in a sling. Sleep train, feed and clean him and don’t forget to socialize, moisturize and exercise him. Overwhelmed yet? And these are only some of the things on your daily to-do list as a stay at home parent of a baby.On top of meeting your baby’s basic needs, there are so many things you’re told to do for, with and to your baby. From the second they’re born, you’re bombarded with advice from anyone from your doctor to your neighbour. While well-intentioned, this pressure can easily make you feel inadequate. Sometimes it feels like the list of parenting ‘shoulds’ will go on forever.
With all this pressure to take care of your little one’s needs, it’s no surprise your own come last. But the good news is, there are lots of things you can do that are good for your baby and you. Cross some of those ‘shoulds’ off your list while also getting some time in for yourself with the list of activities below. They’re guaranteed to generate some ‘feel good’ vibes, keeping you and your baby happier and those overwhelming days in perspective. Plus, isn’t everything more fun with a grin, gummy or otherwise?
Water Fun
Water feels good and it’s calming. So why not head to the pool? Vecova Recreation Centre has a 34.5 degree Celcius salt water pool warm enough for your baby. On nice days, let the sun bring you some cheer at one of The City of Calgary’s wading pools or splash parks. There are also mom and baby aquafit classes if you want to get a workout in at the same time.
Get Zen
Yoga is touted as a great way to de-stress and unwind. You may have tried it in your prenatal days and now you can bring your baby. Plenty of studios across the city offer drop in or registered programs. If yoga isn’t your thing, check out Calgary Barre Studio’s Mommy and Me drop-in classes this summer. You’ll get to work-out, groove and stretch while wearing your baby.
Pump it Up
The City of Calgary Recreation offers a ton of different mom and baby fitness classes. From strength conditioning to stroller fitness, you get to feel good about your body while you and your baby make friends. If your baby’s smiles get too distracting, many of the pools and leisure centres offer babysitting while you work out.
Take a Walk
Looking for something a little more casual to get you and your baby outside and active? All you need are a good pair of shoes and a carrier or stroller to hit the trails. Pick a route along Calgary’s path system, escape the city in Fish Creek Provincial Park, or join the animals at the Calgary Zoo.
Mommy Book Club
Is your brain turning to mush with all those children’s books and nursery rhymes stuck in your head? If you know other stay-at-home parents, consider starting a book club. Pick a book or short article to read and take turns hosting or go out for lunch. Stimulating your brain in an intellectual way can add balance to your wellbeing.
Stars and Strollers
When was the last time you enjoyed a movie uninterrupted? Cineplex theatres at two locations in Calgary offers movie showings where strollers are common, crying is the norm, and bathroom breaks are frequent.
Sip and Play
Plan a play date for you and your baby at one of the city’s café/playgrounds where you can enjoy your cappuccino without worrying about disturbing the calm at your local coffee house. Your baby might not be old enough to enjoy the play structures yet but the socialization will be good for both of you. Check out Hop Sip Jump, Play a Latte or Coffee and Scream.
Get your Groove On
Bust a move to something other than Raffi at a mom and baby dance class or try Zumbini. Feeling a little shy? There’s always your living room, where you can strap baby on and boogie free style!
Mommy Connections
In this registered program, you get to learn and try something new every week. You will get a comprehensive introduction to the City’s products, programs and services all while bonding with your baby and other moms.
