I realized last week that I hadn’t done a full motherhood update in a couple of months, and thought that Camille’s 6 month mark would be a good time to resume the series. Yet, I also realized that a lot has happened in these past 6 months… transition, ups + downs, successes + failures, and realized that I didn’t quite yet have the words to eloquently write everything I was thinking. So, a full motherhood update will come in a couple of weeks… or when I can find the words to convey all that these past six months have been….

In the meantime I was thinking about how different this “newborn” stage has been from the first time around with Harper. I remember putting so much pressure on myself, every single day, to have her every waking moment be as engaging as possible… filled with songs, stories, etc…. at points it felt a little overwhelming and I felt guilty if she was “just sitting there.”

When Camille arrived I knew it would have to be different. My attention would be divided, so I’d have to figure out how to creating a stimulating environment for her, while still being very mindful of little miss’ needs as well. At our first pediatrician appointment after Camille was born, I discussed my concerns with her. She told me to not put so much pressure on myself, to realize that almost everything is new + stimulating for a newborn (especially if you’re out and about + also engaging with a toddler in front of her….). I felt as if a load had been lifted off of me.

So when I get asked about what I do to “play” with Camille I always respond that it’s really simple. Sometimes the play has  Harper involved (always a little more dynamic when that’s the case…) + sometimes it’s done in small segments here and there. And since we sometimes have to be out + about (due to Harper’s schedule) I have a rolodex of “activities” that I do with Camille when that’s the case. And today I thought I would share five simple + easy ways to engage with a newborn that don’t put a ton of pressure on you as a parent… along with the “props” we use + a few other “mom on the go with a newborn” essentials…..

Play-mat: So this play-mat is a great item to toss in the car and pull out when you reach your destination. It folds up easily and is super soft.

Sophie The Giraffe: I use this toy when Camille is doing tummy time. Since it’s one of her favorites, I’ll put it just out of arms reach so that she can practice reaching for it…. and ultimately try to crawl towards it. And it’s a natural reinforcement when she can reach it!

Banana Teether Brush: We had this little teether toy with Harper, and Camille loves it just as much. I use it during tummy time the same way I use the giraffe.

Plush Blanket: Not only is this plush blanket incredibly soft (so great for those cool fall and winter days out + about), but it’s super easy to play peak-a-boo with it. This is one of the games Harper loves to get in on, and it’s always sure to bring about giggles from Camille.

Fish Bowl Plush Toy: When the pediatrician asked us about some of Camille’s fine motor skills, I knew that this toy would be great to work on some of them more frequently. Toss them in your diaper bag when you’re on the go and make up some kind of counting song while you help the little one put the fish in the bowl.

Soft Book: Reading a super short book to Camille is another simple way to engage with her. I love the soft ones for when we’re on the go. 

Car Mirror: Mirror time is one of my favorite activities with Camille… and she always smiles when she’s looking at herself. When you’re out and about using the mirror from the car is such an easy way to do this activity.

Formula Dispenser: As we begin the weaning process, the formula dispensers will be great for on the go and for babysitters.

Food Pouch: Since we’ve been introducing solids for the past several weeks, I like to have a few of these on hand in case we’re out for lunch.

Breast Milk Cooler Bag: Another great item that I had on hand when I was pumping + needing to store the bags when we were out and about, or traveling.

And a lot of the products above are part of Walmart’s Parent’s Choice line. The line is filled with premium items, at affordable prices, which I always appreciate when shopping for baby items. I love that they have such a great variety of practical items such as soft bedding, wipes, + on-the-go food options + that many of them are available via one day delivery (Walmart to the rescue again…)….

So whether you’re at home with your little one… or taking them along with you on an adventure… these easy activities are a sure way to bring about a few smiles! Hope you all have a great weekend!

Thank you to Walmart for sponsoring this post.