is four months too early?

Serena - posted on 10/19/2010

HELL NO its not too early. Fresh air for anyone is good. tell them to mind there own business

Jeanette - posted on 10/19/2010

You are the best judge of when you take you baby out and where you take her. Parent you child as you see fit. You have stated that you are familiar with the area ,and that you always dress her for the weather. If you are still worried,maybe a group of moms could go along.

Michelle - posted on 10/19/2010

First time your baby went outside was most likely when she left the hospital. I'm sure the hospital staff didn't try to dissuade you from making that little trip. ;) Fresh air is good for babies, and we took a hike to a glacier when my DD was just a week old! (so I might not be the best person to ask . . .) Also, I worked in a day care for a year and 7 months (infant room), and we were supposed to take the little ones outside for 20 minutes twice a day. I say, "You go, girl!" :)

Doris - posted on 10/19/2010

If you enjoy it so will your daughter as long as she is safe and warm go out and walk the trails in the woods.

Alice - posted on 10/19/2010

I totally don't understand what "getting her used to the woods too early" means. What, like being outside? Don't listen to people so much - it's good for babies to be outside and besides, don't you feel like you need it too?

Heather - posted on 10/19/2010

NOT AT ALL!!!! That is great you do that! They must be jealous or something. Maybe just weird. Oh well for them

Susan Mc - posted on 10/19/2010

no too many people keep their babies indoors now and thats wrong...start as you mean to go on

Edna - posted on 10/19/2010

these people obviously have nothing else to do. we took our daughter camping from a really early age and plan to do the same with our son. fresh air is good for you and your child. if you can't tell them to mind there own business then best to ignore them!

Katrina - posted on 10/19/2010

No.....fresh air, nature...good god some people need to back off! Enjoy your walks. Enjoy nature...maybe even let baby lie on a blanket and have a kick in the woods!

Gretchen - posted on 10/19/2010

Why would a baby be too young to experience fresh air and nature????

Hanna - posted on 10/19/2010

How stupid can people be!!! Of course its good for your baby to be outside with you! I've been taking my son for walks in his Moby Wrap since he was six weeks old. Keep it up, its great for you and your baby! :)

Darlene - posted on 10/19/2010

omg! Those people are crazy! Not only is she getting fresh air and your company, you are also being a great role model for your child, even though she doesn't realize it yet. Keep on hiking girlfriend!

Niki - posted on 10/19/2010

I took mine to the beach, so I'm sure the woods are okay.

Lara - posted on 10/19/2010

Haha, my newborn went to a concert with me straight out of the hospital AND he was a preemie. You know what they say about people's opinions. Here is Denmark they leave the kids in strollers outside, even in the Winter so they will sleep better and have fresh air. There is always someone who will make an opinion about your efforts as a mother. Just follow your instincts and leave the neurotic people to their neuroses.

Jessica - posted on 10/19/2010

Absolutely not! Sounds to me like you have her perfectly comfortable and there is no reason why she can't go for walks with you, no matter where it is (unless you were say climbing Mt Everest, lol). They might just be making small talk but no matter go get yourself some excercise and get that baby some fresh air. It is good for both of you! Pay no attention to the busybodies who want to tell you how to raise your child.

Gaynor-Marie - posted on 10/19/2010

Maybe they aren't trying to infer anything is wrong. Often people make odd comments because they want to make conversation or admire your baby, or even they admire your fitness and can't just say you look good so soon after having a baby or something. Anyway just comment that you both enjoy being out.

Emma - posted on 10/19/2010

I think that it is great that you are bring your lil' one outside at this age. The fresh air, different noises for her to hear and experience. And during the daytime is great, she gets to try and see the wonderful colors in the woods. As some others have mentioned to you, as long as you are not bringing her out too late in the day, or the evening time, I wouldn't pay any attention to what by passers are saying to you, you have your baby close to you and getting some exercise and fresh air for the both of you. And who know, when she gets a lil' older, she just might make it something that the 2 of you make a mommy and daughter walk and be quality time for the both of you.
In Spirit and Friendship Always, Lil' *M*

Carolyn - posted on 10/19/2010

NO SHE ISNT I WOULDNT WORRY ABOUT IT AT ALL, YOU HAVE HER NICE AN CONFY IN YOUR ARMS

Becky - posted on 10/19/2010

Totally great! The fresh air is great for her. Mother knows what is best for her baby. Follow your instincts:)

Becky - posted on 10/19/2010

Oh absolutely not! This is so refreshing to hear. So many new moms are WAY overprotective. Getting them use to the outdoors and fresh air is one of the best things you can do. Children these days sit in the house and watch tv and play video games. Very rarely do you see a field of children playing ball after school or riding their bicycles up and down the streets. Getting them use to being outdoors and WANTING to go out to play - when they get older - is good psychological and physical activity. Makes for a happier, healthier child.

Dianne - posted on 10/19/2010

NO SHE IS NOT, SHE NEEDS THE FRESH AIR

Angela - posted on 10/19/2010

Being out in the fresh air is a wonderful thing!!!! I have a baby that is one month old right now and I had her outside to take pictures two weeks ago. As long as your child is dressed for the weather and shows no discomfort being outside get out while you can. Everyone making comments to you just have no life of there own and need to get one lol.

Niina - posted on 10/19/2010

Good for you!!! I took my baby hiking in the mountains when she was only a month old!!! That's what the snuggly is for!!! Fresh air and so much nature to see, how can that be a bad thing??? Great way to get back into shape too!!! :)

Veronica - posted on 10/19/2010

Not at all!!! I think what you are doing is geat :)

Todd - posted on 10/19/2010

hell no! i have a 7 year old and a 1 year old, both born in sept, and both were out in the woods by 3 months old. that means in dec! as long as you bundle her up well and make sure you take her out of any sling that lets her feet dangle every 20 mins or so you'll be ok. the reason you want to take her out of dangly baby carriers (baby born, some mei tei wraps, etc) every once in a while is that they can restrict bloodflow a bit, leading to frostbite on very cold days. and it doesn't matter what kind of trail it is, since she's not hiking, as long as you feel comfortable and confident on it you'll be fine. get out there!

Jeanne - posted on 10/19/2010

Hi Nellie,

I can't believe these people are giving you grief over bringing your daughter out for some fresh air!!! If you go during the day, she is well clothed and you feel secure on these paths I don't see what the harm in it is. I would simply ask the people who comment what do they see wrong with what you are doing and then listen, nod politely and say "Thank you...I'll think about that" and continue. I'll be honest with you I would rather see a mom taking a path walking in the woods then some parents I see jogging with their babies in a running stroller on a busy street...not the sidewalk...but on the street. If you feel safe and secure then I would continue your excursions.

Elizabeth - posted on 10/19/2010

Great for you to be exercising, taking your child out for Mother Nature's wonderful atmosphere, and for setting an example already-- keep up the good work!

Trinetta - posted on 10/19/2010

It's not like your going to leave in the woods to be raised by the wolves:) LOL. If she enjoys the peace, then you should enjoy it with her. All call this making memories with your little one.

Courtney - posted on 10/19/2010

Tell the people who are giving you trouble for this to mind their own business! I think it is wonderful, and I do the same thing. The fresh air is great for them and the natural sun is a good source of vitamins for them! As long as she is in proper clothing where she cannot get bit by anything she is fine!! I put my daughter in her stroller with a warm nighty, hat, and coat with a bug shield (net) over it so nothing can get at her and she loves it! It stinks being couped up in a house all day and stores are filled with unnecessary germs, the outdoors is the perfect relief. Especially when it includes exercise!! Keep it up:)

Angelika - posted on 10/19/2010

Dang.............I wish people would just look at them- selves and give advice on their issues instead of always budding into others !
There is absolutley nothing wrong with taking your baby into the woods. I assume you mean walk in the woods, not actually going hiking or camping in the woods.
The only suggestion I have is to make sure you have a cell.phone and that there is reception out there. If not, take a walkie talkie,etc. Just make sure that if something where to happen to you, you can call for help. And make sure you let somebody know when you're going, what trail and when you are going to be back so in case you are unable to call for help, somebody knows you are missing and starts looking for you.
Have fun !

Mona - posted on 10/19/2010

I am a mom, grandmother and a great grandmother and I have never heard of anything so absurd. I think it is great that you take your daughter for walks in the woods. Don't pay any attention to those comments.

Linda - posted on 10/19/2010

An outing with baby in the fresh air is always a treat for both of you. Go for it and have a wonderful time!

Wanda - posted on 10/19/2010

Never too young to be in nature. A walk in the woods is a wonderful adventure for a person of any age!

Marlene - posted on 10/19/2010

IMHO, it's never too early for an experience like that! I don't even know why anyone would think anytime is "too young" for a walk in the woods? Being in the woods is healthier than going to the mall!
I would only caution that I never liked slings, so I don't understand why they are so popular nowadays. I prefer a baby carrier or wrap that holds the baby securely w/o needing to guard it w your arm. Esp on a trail where you may trip on a root or rock, you would want both hands/arms free. Many times I'd have a newborn in a front pack & a toddler on my back. I've even gone caving like that, which is a little more "rugged" than just a walk in the woods. Being out in nature is healthy for everyone, no mattert their age. Hike away!

Janice - posted on 10/19/2010

I think its great that you take her out. Why would that be bad? People often have strange opinions.

Judy - posted on 10/19/2010

True! I refuse to let the world limit my enjoyment of Gods Creation! I usually travel with a partner when I walk the woods! There was a time I and my daughter walked by ourselves, but no more. That is such a shame isnt it! Im an old girlscout :) Scouting taught me how to live and move in the woods! That added to my love of nature!

Lisa - posted on 10/19/2010

I think it's great for the kids to get outside and experience the beauty that God has given us, even as infants. I had all three of mine out on family hikes in the woods as infants in the baby sling or Snugli. You are building precious bonds with your family during times like these. My only caution would be for your safety. I don't like to walk alone in the woods and only do it if I have another adult present for that very reason.

Judy - posted on 10/19/2010

This is just my opinion, mind you, but heck no I took mine as soon as I could! My Father took me at a young age. I grew up, loving the world of Nature! My daughter is 33, but she still tells me, some of her fondest memories are exploring nature with her mom! So take her, keep her safe and show her the beauty of tree and flowers and a sunset or sunrise! Have fun!

Nicole - posted on 10/19/2010

The fresh air is great for her, keep it up!! As long as she is staying warm, there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking her on walks!

Jodie - posted on 10/19/2010

Not at ALL! A friend of mine and her husband are avid hikers, campers, ect... Willa was only 3 months old when they started camping and hiking with her. It is great for them to be outside. It is also amazing how much of a "nature girl" she is now @ 1 year old. I would suggest a back pack type carrier, We started using one @ about 6 months. this way you have your hands free.

Jen - posted on 10/19/2010

are u making her crawl naked then yes lol why would it be bad shes in a sling wrapped next to her mummy safe n sound enjoying sum fresh air n new smells go for it.

Sharon - posted on 10/19/2010

?? I don't even understand this. How could it ever be too early for nature? What is the concern?

Marybeth - posted on 10/19/2010

My daughter is now 18. When she was two weeks I took her out walking .It was gergeous outside. I bundled her up and off we went. A lot of mothers will be critical in what you do because they think they know it all.I was told that I should have waited @ least 6 months before I gave my daughter pureed fruit. This came from a mother who also said that you should only talk baby talk to a baby. What ended up happening when her boy was three ,He still was talking like a one year old. Your daughter wil be fine. Keep up the good work.

April - posted on 10/19/2010

its great that you are doing that ignore what others are saying about its to early babys love the outdooors my son woz born when it snowed and i still took him out. you both carry on enjoying enjoying the woods x

Cazzie - posted on 10/19/2010

I dont think it is its great that your getting her out and about and not sat indoors all the time. ignore what comments people give you shes your daughter and its you choice what to do.

Nancy - posted on 10/19/2010

I took my oldest to a Purdue football game in Nov. and she was born in Aug. Had her bundled up real good and there were people commenting on how cold she must be. I told them to feel her hands, she had on a pram, she was warmer than any of the adults around. It is great that you want to take her for walks in the woods or anywhere else in the fresh air. Plus getting her use to the changing weather early will help her not to get sick as often in the winter cause she gets use to the cooler air and it helps. Believe me because my kids were forever getting out the door when my back was turned and they were in their diapers and very seldom got sick, and that was in the dead of winter. So tell those people to mind their own business.

Paula - posted on 10/19/2010

I think it is fantastic that you are taking her outdoors. I take my 9 month old twins boys out every single day and they love it.

Louise - posted on 10/19/2010

Fresh air is good for any baby!! any age! you would walk down a busy high street, round a noisy supermarket, so as long as she is warm and you check frequently then go enjoy the tranquility and colours of the outdoors!!

Marion - posted on 10/19/2010

oh my goodness ppl have said that to you, that isnt wrong for you to do, thats a great thing

Huda - posted on 10/19/2010

of course not.. i think its an amazing thing.. for both of u.. planning for a day out for both of u is exciting all by itself.. as long as ur baby id dressed properly according for the weather.. is its summer.. dont cover her all up.. if its winter.. dress her warmly.. i think u got the point.. but its is very benifiting even for ur baby .. to see new views and scenes.. i think thats very healthy for her.. i can smell the woods already.. lucky u.. i live in the city.. n the only trees i c is in the public park..:p