Beat the Heat for New Moms

It’s summer in Houston which can only mean one thing – it’s HOT!  While scorching temps are tough on everyone, it can be especially hard for new moms who depend on the neighborhood park or walk around the block for some adult interaction.  Here are some tips for staying cool while combatting social isolation, designed specifically for moms with babies under a year. 

1.         Walk indoors at the Galleria or other shopping malls. 

Get a little exercise in by meeting a friend to walk at the mall.  Go early before the stores open (before 10am) so it is easy to park and not crowded. 

2.         Visit your neighborhood pool.

If your baby is over 6 months old, slather on the sunscreen and head to your neighborhood pool.  You’re looking for a kiddie pool where the water is about 6 inches deep, so you can easily sit in the water with your baby on your lap.   Sure the city is full of awesome splash pads (Hermann Park, Levy Park, the ERJCC), but until your baby can walk, splash pads are useless.  Most neighborhood pools have a kiddie pool that is just perfect for this age! 

3.        Check out a music or gym class.

If classes are not financially possible year round, consider enrolling for the summer only.  For a reasonable price, you’ll have an air-conditioned place to chat with other moms for 45 minutes.  Your baby will benefit from the music and tactile stimulation.  My favorites for this age are Fundamentally Music (themusicclass.com) and Gymboree (gymboreeclasses.com).  Can’t decide?  Grab a class pass from Kidzxplor.com to sample them all!

4.         Pop by your neighborhood library story hour.

Almost all public libraries offer a story hour for kids of all ages.  Be sure to check the calendar for days and times.  Programs vary but typically last 30 minutes and include songs and stories led by a librarian.  It’s a free, air-conditioned activity where you can chat with people your own age!