My friend Jeanine was outside with her nine-month-old daughter, Pepper, when Whitney happened to pass by. Jeanine was guiding Pepper's tiny hand to feel the soft, fuzzy lavender poking out of a garden — not knowing it belonged to Whitney. The two had been taking a sensory walk around the neighborhood.
Give it a shot to make your daily walks more engaging (for you!):
- Pause to inhale the scent of blossoms.
- Bend down so your little one can feel a velvety leaf.
- Observe vivid hues and the contrast of shadows.
- Crunch fallen leaves and twigs underfoot, or rustle a wrapper (oops, I meant a Luna Bar).
- If you're having a snack or drink your baby can try — like a green smoothie — let them share.
You've reached challenge number 38. Exploring your block this way builds skills for when your baby becomes a toddler and walks independently.
Completed this challenge? Let us know using one of these options:
- Leave a comment below.
- Post a photo on our Facebook page.
- Tag your location on Twitter or Instagram with #rookiemoms.
- Alternatively, drop a link in the comments to your own blog post covering this challenge.
Looking to bookmark this activity? Go ahead and pin it!
If your baby has outgrown this activity, choose another toddler-friendly outing. If they're still too small, treat yourself to a latte instead!
Image courtesy of Lovely Olivia. All rights reserved.






