The positive energy of spring sunshine is currently motivating me to savour moments that deepen the connection between me and my 11-month-old bubba, as I eagerly anticipate my return to work in just a couple of weeks. Our days together include lots of fun and funny little moments as she explores and experiences the world, which I’m sure will become cherished memories as we navigate the transition back to a busier routine. I’m writing this to share some of these experiences and ideas with other parents who might be seeking inspiration for their own spring activities with their little ones.

Playground Adventures

One recent highlight of our springtime adventures was our first proper trip to a playground. It may seem like nothing much, but it felt like a special occasion marking our newfound freedom from being bundled up against the cold! With the warmer weather, bubba could finally move freely, less restricted by layers of clothing and blankets! 

It was lovely to watch her little eyes take in the exciting play structures and hear her laugh. She first crawled over to the slide, grasped the edges clumsily and pulled herself up to standing. I slid her down the slide a few times, which was a good workout for my arms! Her little squeaks at having fun (I guess!) was a soundbite of the simple joys of childhood that springtime reminds us of.

The swings were another favourite. I wasn’t sure how well she’d take to swings, at such a young age, but her little legs dangled with abandon as she enjoyed floating back and forth. She was laughing, and even more beautifully, held eye contact with me the whole time. In the gentle warmth of the sunny spring weather, it felt like the bond between us was growing stronger with each little push. 

Springing into a New Routine

But our springtime adventures aren’t limited to the playground. As I prepare to get back into career mode, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to make the most of our time together, both at weekends and during the moments we share before and after work/nursery.

One idea that has resonated with me is incorporating seasonal themes into our daily routines. For spring, I’m thinking of looking at different trees and bushes on the way to/from daycare, bath time with colourful flower petals, bedtime stories with a spring-related book. I see social media full of ideas – but I’m definitely not going to have the time or patience for cutting bubba’s food into springtime scenes and shapes, or whatever! 

I’m much happier doing sensory play sessions or simple crafts. I’d like to try a sensory bin, for example, with soft fabrics, plastic Easter eggs and paper grass, or simple crafting activities with finger paints and cotton wool (thinking of bunnies here). We made Easter cards with our finger prints turned into little chicks by drawing legs, wings and beaks (I’m not really good at drawing, but you get the idea!) My plan is to come up with a few more easy yet engaging activities that allow us to connect in meaningful ways, even during the busiest of days. If you have any ideas, please share them in the comments below!

Growing and Gardening

Another idea that has caught my eye is introducing my Little Bean to the joys of spending time in the garden. I actually don’t have much of a green thumb myself, but I think that playing in the garden is a simple way to get her to explore and learn to love the outdoors. Crawling around in the grass, touching the different leaves and hedges, digging in the soil – I can imagine she will really enjoying this kind of thing. 

Maybe when she’s a bit older, we can share the experience of planting and nurturing seeds and plants. I imagine a shared project like this can be a great way to further strengthen our bond. I’d probably start small with potted plants or herbs that require minimal maintenance, and hope to instil a love of nature and a sense of wonder at the positive energy that springtime brings.

Blooming Bonds

Whether we’re exploring the outdoors, getting our hands dirty in the garden, or simply enjoying quiet moments of sensory play at home, I feel that these springtime adventures will serve as a reminder of the beauty of parenthood and simple warmth that comes from nurturing the bond between me and my little explorer.

💬 Over to you:  I’m eager to hear about the creative activities and special moments other families enjoy with your little ones during this season of renewed energy. Share your stories, ideas, and tips in the comments below—I’m excited to learn from your experiences and discover new ways to make the most of springtime bonding with my baby!