For the Dads: 10 Ideas for Parental Leave
Updated: 4 days ago
I was inspired to write this post when one of the moms in my Fit Together Adventure Club asked if we had any suggestions for things her husband and baby could do while he was on his six-month parental leave.
He could likely join just about any class or event, but I suspect some might feel a little more like a "dad" place than others. Most of these ideas will be best for babies and toddlers between birth and 18 months, since that's the age range when parental leave often happens.
That said, it will always depend on Dad's personality and interests. And these ideas aren't just for dads! They're great for any caregiver looking to get out of the house and spend some quality time with a little one.
Here are a few of my favorites, along with some suggestions from other parents.
Fit Together's Adventure Club - I recommend this one not just because I lead and love it, but because there was a dad in the very first class I ever took! Adventure Club is a great way to get outside, meet other families, and spend time moving your body while your little one tags along. It's also a great opportunity to build a community of other parents who are in a similar stage of life. Aileen of Fit Together also suggested Parent and Baby Aquafit - she's had dads in that class, also! See #3, too.
Babywearing - Now, this isn't a class or event, but it's a way to make life just a bit easier when you are caring for a little one. My favorite for dad's is the Ergo Baby Omni 360 and it's the one we both use the most since it's very versitile and adjustable and seems to be a bit better for taller people. Use it for grocery shopping, contact naps on the go, hiking, making dinner or just getting things done around the house. It's also a great way to get outside without worrying about whether your stroller will make it down the trail.
Swim lessons - I don't love being in the water, but my partner does. Swim lessons, let's go! It's common to see dad at swim lessons. Many pools have family change rooms making this even easier. And you don't necessarily need to go to lessons, but just a swim at the local pool or beach is a great option, too! The City of Winnipeg offers swim lessons, but so does the YMCA, the miltary base and rural pools, too. Check the one closest to you. I know some families who camp near a local pool for a week adjacent to swim lessons and make a whole trip out of it. The campground in Carmen is next to a waterpark that offers swim lessons.
Library Programming - You'll find a variety of parents and caregivers at the local library. And they often have excellent programming. From Baby Rhyme Time to Family Store Time and more. Rural libraries often have childrens programming, too. Babies love hearing familiar voices, so finding a comfortable spot at the library and reading a few books together is a perfect way to spend some time. Bonus: It's free!
Run or skate with the stroller - this one is a bit tricky for the taller dad's because not all strollers are at a good height for running and even worse once you're on skates, but if you do have a stroller that you can push for either activity, get out there and go! Fresh air and moevement is good for us all. Just make sure your little one is old enough for the activity and that your stroller and equipment are designed for it. I typically recommend waiting until they are sitting well (6+ months for most).
Home Depot Workshops - These FREE classes book up fast because they are so awesome! If you snag a spot, you can build something cool at your local Home Depot. Check the age requirements and workshop details before booking.
The park - Outdoor parks and indoor parks are both excellent spots to take your littles. Let's be honest, an adult at the park by themself can be a bit weird (even if you are just working out or stretching, I have definately been that person), but with a little one, you can stretchm play and parent and not look weird: win-win-win! For indoor parks, check out Hide n Seek, the local YMCA, Kidtopia, Kid City and more. Grab a coffee, find a place to play and let your little one explore. For younger babies, an indoor play space (like the one at Scout) can also be a good place to watch the action, enjoy some tummy time or simply get out of the house. I keep a blanket in my car to put on the floor or ground wherever we go.
A local sporting event - You could go to a local high school or college sporting event (U of W or U of M), a professional event (Sea Bears, Goldeyes, Manitoba Moose, Jets) or just a kids event at the local rink. We have accidently found ourselves at a kids hockey practice at the rink and my daughter was absolutely cto be watching older kids playing hockey. I'm a fan of bringing our children to novel places and for most kids (but, of course, not all), the excitment of a sporting event is fun. Don't be afraid to show up late, leave early or have them sleep through the entire thing.
Coffee shop + stroller walk - Sometimes, the simplest outings are the best. Find a coffee shop close to good trails or sidewalks (maybe even the mall), grab a coffee and head out for a walk. You can explore a new neighbourhood, find a local trail, or just get some fresh air before heading home. If baby needs to nap along the way, even better.
Visit family or friends - Parenting is always easier with a few extra, willing adult hands! And talking to other adults can be a breath of fresh air after a long time alone with a baby. Make plans to meet up for coffee (can you tell I love coffee), a walk (can you tell I love going for walks) or a simple visit. Bonus points if they offer to hold the baby while you enjoy your coffee with two hands!
Parental leave can be an incredible opportunity to spend time with your baby, build confidence as a parent and develop routines that work for your family. But it can also feel long when your days don't have much structure, especially if you're used to working outside the home. Having a few regular activities on the calendar can give your week some rhythm and help you get out of the house.
And remember, you don't need to plan an elaborate adventure every day. Sometimes the best days involve a walk, a coffee, a few books at the library and a baby who falls asleep on the way home (thank goodness you have your coffee and book in the car already!). The goal isn't to keep your baby entertained every minute. It's to spend time together, find what you enjoy and make the most of this season of life.
Dr. Kristen Mitteness is a webster certified chiropractor with a passion for prenatal, postnatal and pediatric care. She's a mom, co-owner of White Horse Family Wellness, avid reader and loves spending time outside.
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