The benefits of fresh air, movement, and connection in the early days of parenting
By Stuart Childress, The Heybrook
(Estimated reading time: 3 minutes)
In the early weeks and months of parenthood, even the simplest outing can feel like a major feat. But getting outside with your baby—whether for a walk around the block or a meet-up with other parents—can offer incredible benefits for both your mental and physical well-being.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth the effort to pack the diaper bag and venture out, the answer is a wholehearted yes. Here’s why:
It Helps Your Baby’s Brain and Body Develop
Time outdoors offers important developmental support for your baby. Natural light exposure supports healthy sleep patterns, while new sights, sounds, and movement help stimulate their growing brain. Babies who regularly get outside often sleep better, cry less, and show more alertness during wake windows—all from something as simple as a daily walk.
It Supports Your Mental and Physical Health
Moving your body, even gently, can have a big impact on postpartum recovery and mental health. Walking outdoors can help reduce stress, ease symptoms of postpartum anxiety or depression, and support your physical healing after birth. It’s a manageable way to reconnect with your body, especially if traditional workouts feel out of reach right now.
It Creates a Gentle Routine
New parent life doesn’t come with much structure, and the days can start to blur together. Adding a weekly walk or outdoor meet-up to your calendar can offer just enough rhythm to help ground your week, without pressure or expectation. Whether your baby naps the whole time, needs to feed mid-walk, or fusses the entire outing, it’s all welcome.
You’ll Connect with Other Parents (and Remember You’re Not Alone)
One of the most overlooked challenges of early parenthood is the isolation. But connection is essential. Even a casual chat with another parent who gets it can offer a huge boost. Outdoor walks with other caregivers are a low-pressure way to meet people, trade tips, and feel like part of a community, without having to commit to a structured class or event.
You Don’t Have to Be “Ready” to Go
Many parents hesitate to leave the house because they’re worried they’ll forget something or their baby might cry. The truth is, that’s part of the journey—and you’re allowed to show up exactly as you are. Whether your baby needs to eat halfway through or you didn’t have time to brush your hair, it doesn’t matter. These moments are for you, too.
Want to try it out? Join our weekly Stroller Walk every Monday at 10 a.m. at The Heybrook in Kirkland.
No pressure, no expectations—just movement, fresh air, and real connection. All caregivers welcome. Babies can ride in strollers, be carried, or be snuggled in your arms.
Come as you are. We’ll walk together.
Looking for more support? Explore our full schedule of parent-baby classes, support circles, and expert Q&As at theheybrook.com.
About the Author
Stuart Childress is the Owner and CEO of the Heybrook, a comprehensive platform and community designed to empower parents from preconception through postpartum. She holds an MBA from the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business and brings extensive experience across education nonprofits, healthcare startups, and large corporations, focusing primarily on program management, product development, and strategic leadership.
Stuart is deeply passionate about creating meaningful impact by empowering women and parents through access to community, education, and resources. Her dedication to uplifting others drives her mission to develop innovative solutions that strengthen individuals and build thriving communities.
Outside of her work at the Heybrook, Stuart is a proud mom to three young children, balancing her professional pursuits with her personal commitment to family and connection.
