New mother and father lose 5 days a 12 months simply attempt to get out of the home

Getting the pram set up, preparing bottles, packing changing bags and a baby crying at the worst possible moment top the list of obstacles

New parents lose more than five days a year trying to get out of the house with their baby in tow, new research has revealed. Almost half (49%) of British families take at least 21 minutes longer to leave after having a child, while 73% worry about being late before they’ve even made it through the front door.

Getting the pram set up (22%), preparing bottles (30%), packing changing bags (26%) and a baby crying at the worst possible moment (30%) top the list of obstacles, according to the survey by The Baby Room at Smyths Toys Superstores .

Even making it out of the house doesn’t necessarily mean parents are on their way. Six in ten have to go back inside for something they’ve forgotten or suddenly need – and 19% make the trip three to five times before finally setting off. Parents’ own essentials (27%) top the list of items most likely to be left behind.

Martina Ruane, European marketing director at The Baby Room at Smyths Toys, says “Our data reveals that parents are finding leaving the house one of the most stressful parts of the day but it doesn’t have to be.

“By planning ahead and using handy products to help speed up the process, parents can save time on leaving the house and have more time and energy to enjoy what really matters – enjoying quality time with your children.”

Smyths has partnered with Sarah Murphy, international maternity nurse and parenting expert at The Happy Baby Expert , to provide a practical guide on leaving the house stress-free and efficiently.

Here are her top tips for new parents

1. Find a gentle rhythm: Settling in at a slower pace often works better for new parents than trying to stick to a rigid schedule. If you’re due to leave close to a feed time, there’s nothing wrong with bringing that feed forward by 20 to 30 minutes so you can feed, change and go. And remember, plans may need to shift – building in a little flexibility can take some of the pressure off getting out on time.

2. Preparation is key: Every new parent learns the hard way that you really do need to take everything but the kitchen sink! Keep your changing bag stocked with the essentials and replenish anything you’ve used as soon as you get home. That way, when it’s time to leave again, it’s ready to grab rather than another job on the list.

3. Start small: Your first outing doesn’t need to be a big day out. Have a walk around your local area, a quick coffee or somewhere close to home. As your confidence grows, venture a little further. Getting out and about with a baby is something you get better at simply by doing it.

4. Your baby doesn’t care where you’re going: The most important thing is to try not to stress. Your baby doesn’t know you have a lunch reservation or that you’re supposed to be somewhere at 11am. If they need a feed, a cuddle or an unexpected nappy change, deal with what your baby needs and then carry on. Giving yourself permission to be a little late can make those early trips out much less stressful.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s good to remember that thousands of families are preparing for a new arrival this September. You’re not alone.

For the full guide, including further tips and advice for new or soon-to-be parents, head to: https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/getting-out-with-baby-tips