Autumn is settling in… Temperatures are becoming cooler, days are shorter, and the weather is more unstable and humid… It's the time of year when we love to bring out our cozy chunky sweaters, curl up under a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa, and relax. Has baby arrived since your last autumn of cuddling under the duvet with your loved one? Never mind! We give you 10 relaxation activity ideas for the family.
"Chill" idea No. 1: Family massages
A small amount of P'tits Câlins oil and off we go for a little family massage session!
With the youngest, you can target the tummy that twists or have fun tickling the feet a little…
For the older children, why not make it a ritual? Print cards showing different areas of the body. Every Sunday, draw one at random to see what we will massage!
Nothing beats filling up with softness and releasing all the tensions of the week… Did you notice that the P’tits Câlins oil smelled like frangipane?
Chill idea #2: A walk in the forest
Even if freshness settles in, the sun is sometimes still part of the scene, illuminating with its rays the blaze of the trees.
Baby snuggled in its baby carrier, the carrying blanket to stay warm, and hop, off for a little walk in the forest to admire the beautiful autumn colors.
If you have older children, they will also love making bouquets of fallen leaves and then creating beautiful drawings to give to the rest of the family!
Chill idea #3: Making pancakes or a good cake
Even if your baby is still a little young to taste (you have to wait until they can manage pieces), nothing stops you from preparing it!
As soon as they are old enough to be seated, don't hesitate to put your little one in their high chair next to you during the preparation so they can observe the different steps. Children love to imitate you: give them a plastic bowl and a wooden spoon in their hands to pretend to be like mom/dad, guaranteed delight!
For the older children, cracking eggs, pouring flour into the bowl, or stirring the dough are activities generally very appreciated. Prepare clothes that are easy to wash (or even better: an apron) to avoid stress over stains. Don't miss the moment.
Chill idea #4: Go to the museum
A calm atmosphere, the opportunity to learn a lot of things, and a sheltered place from bad weather... What more could you ask for?
We don't always think about it but it's an original outing and an opportunity to ignite the natural curiosity of the youngest and to make them discover new worlds.
Did you know?
All museums and national monuments are free for teachers and those under 25 all the time, and for everyone on the first Sundays of each month!
Chill idea #5: Take a bath with baby
There is much talk about the virtues of skin-to-skin contact, but have you ever tried taking a bath with your baby?
With you in the water, they rediscover certain reflexes and sensations known in utero, maximum relaxation guaranteed.
Caution, getting out of the bathtub can be a bit of an acrobatic feat. We advise you to always have your partner nearby to ensure the towel logistics.
Chill idea #6: A sensory discovery workshop
Different textures of fabrics, tubs with flour or chickpeas, small jars filled with spices with very characteristic smells... Sometimes it’s not necessary to invest in very expensive toys, just open the cupboards to improvise learning-rich workshops for your babies!
Taste, sight, hearing, smell, touch… Choose your theme, find as many varied accessories as possible related to it, settle comfortably with your little one, and depending on their age: let them explore the workshop freely or offer them different sensations.
Sensorial discovery can be offered from the first weeks of life, but it must be adapted to your toddler's age. The younger your baby, the more the elements should be differentiated and the activity time should be short because it is very
"Chill" Idea No. 07: Listening to Soft Music
Music soothes the soul, they say, and rightly so.
Melomaniac friends, now is the time to introduce your favorite playlists to your children!
Which team will you be on?
Rather classical music, jazz, Tibetan bowls, nature sounds… For a calming atmosphere…
Or percussion, pop, rock, metal… to dance, have fun, and let loose!
Let your desires run free and enjoy yourself!
If you play an instrument yourself, your little ones will also be delighted to see and hear you repeat… something that could spark a vocation in them later, who knows?
"Chill" Idea No. 08: Going to the Aquarium
If there is an aquarium near you, it’s a trip worth taking with your little one!
The atmosphere is , especially thanks to reduced bluish lights. From its stroller, your baby will be able to observe the fish swimming in the different tanks.
"Chill" Idea No. 09: Reading Stories
Sober, simple, effective: reading!!!
Travel, discover the world, the universe, without leaving your couch? Thanks to books, anything is possible. From the first weeks of life, your little one can listen to you tell stories, you can show him picture books, and encourage his love for tales and paper adventures.
Does your child develop a fierce appetite for reading? Don’t hesitate to browse libraries to stock up on new books without breaking the bank.
"Chill" Idea No. 10: Napping
When you have a baby, sleep becomes a rare and precious commodity. Has your little one fallen asleep in his cradle? Quick, your warm and cozy bed is calling for a little rest that is comforting and restorative!
Isn’t it nice here, wrapped in the soft cocoon of his bedding, peacefully drifting into Morpheus’ arms, rocked by his gentle breathing? Close your eyes, ENJOY!
Now you’re ready to face winter weekends! Which activity will you try?
