The start of a new year is a great time to reflect on the past and plan for the future. This year, why not make healthy habits a priority? Here are five simple habits you can start as a parent to ensure that 2023 is your healthiest year yet! 

1. Get Moving with Outdoor Walks

Getting some fresh air and sunshine is good for both mom and baby. Going on daily walks around the neighborhood or in a nearby park will help you get some exercise while also letting your little one explore their surroundings. If you have a baby carrier, take advantage of it — you’ll be able to keep your arms free while still being close enough to talk and sing to your baby. If you have an older baby, use a stroller or wagon to make sure they’re secure while out exploring.  

2. Make Your Own Baby Food

Making homemade baby food doesn’t just save money — it also gives you control over what goes into each meal. It’s easier than ever with our Squeeze Station, so try using fresh fruits and vegetables from the grocery store or farmer’s market to create healthy purees for your little one. You can even freeze portions for later!  

3. Incorporate Tummy Time

Tummy time is important for babies because it helps develop their motor skills, strengthens their neck muscles, and encourages them to reach out and explore their environment with their hands. It’s also a great way for babies to learn how to roll over, crawl, and sit up on their own — all essential steps in helping them become more independent as they grow up! Try scheduling tummy time into your day by placing baby on their tummy on a blanket after each nap or feeding session.

4. Organize Baby Toys

Organizing toys can seem like an overwhelming task, especially after the holidays, but it does not need to be complicated. Before bringing out the new toys, you will want to donate any items your baby no longer plays with to make space for new items. Then you’ll want to focus on a simple organization system that will save you time overall. Having designated places where toy pieces go after each playtime session makes clean-up easier and helps keep things neat and tidy — plus, it teaches your baby responsibility from an early age! A box or basket labeled with pictures of what goes inside makes finding toys easier too! For example, you could have designated boxes for blocks and another for plush toys. This makes finding certain items and putting them back after playtime easy. 

5. Create a Bedtime Routine

A bedtime routine can vary month-to-month with a growing baby as their needs change and sleep patterns develop. However, it’s essential to be consistent, and here are some suggestions that can work for you no matter how old your baby is. Establishing a regular bedtime routine will help your little one know when it’s time for sleep at night — this includes everything from dimming lights two hours before bedtime (to signal that it is winding down time) to taking a bath before bed (which relaxes babies as it helps signal “it's time for sleep”). Reading stories together is also another great way to calm down before going off to dreamland! 

Starting the new year off right by introducing healthy habits into your home is essential to ensure that both parents and babies stay happy, healthy, and well balanced throughout 2023. Not only will you get more exercise through outdoor walks with baby but creating homemade meals will provide nutrition without sacrificing convenience — plus organizing toys makes playtime safer than ever before! Finally, incorporating tummy time into everyday activities builds strength while creating a consistent bedtime routine ensures restful nights ahead — making this New Year even better than the last one! Happy 2023!