Hi mummies, how often should I take my 9 month old out of the house for activities?

Question

Hi mummies, need some help here. My LO attends infant care, and has weekly swimming sessions. But recently my in-laws started commenting that shes not going out enough because she keeps staring at people and objects 🙄(I know its a developmental thing, but these old folks just need an excuse to take her out to show off to their friends and families).I am concerned too if shes too bored at home, but I prioritize her naps and feeds. My daughter dropped from her 25th percentile at birth to now 3rd percentile. So feeds are really non-negotiable for me. And shes so curious about her surroundings that every time shes outside of the house or outside of school shed rather look around then eat/drink milk. (Same thing bringing her g.pa and g.mas place. She refuses to eat or drink anywhere other than home and school) Mummy and daddy both work demanding jobs, so as much as wed like to take her out on touristy activities, more often than not, its a stroll around our neighborhood a couple of times a week. If were not doing something wrong, how do we tell these old folks to butt off nicely. And if we are, what should we do better?#firsttimemom #plshelp #adviceappreciated

Jan Samson · Answer

Hi mummy 😊 I honestly don’t think you’re doing anything wrong here. At 9 months, it’s very normal that babies are super curious and will get distracted easily when outside so refusing milk/food in new places is actually quite common. And going out “more” doesn’t automatically mean better development also. What matters more is naps, feeds, interaction, and feeling secure which you’re already prioritising :)