Category: Parenting Tips

DadProved Dad Tips and Parenting Tips

Regressions in Babies in the First Year
Welcoming a new baby into your life is an exciting and joyous time. As a new dad, you’re likely thrilled with every milestone your baby achieves. From their first smile to those adorable babbling sounds, each moment feels like a victory. But just when you think you’ve got this parenting thing down, your little one might throw you a curveball: regressions. Yes, those perplexing periods where your baby seems to backtrack in their development, leaving you scratching your head and reaching for the coffee. But fear not, dear dads, for we’re here to decode the mysteries of baby regressions and arm you with strategies to weather the storm.

What are regressions?

Picture this: your once soundly sleeping baby suddenly starts waking up multiple times throughout the night, fussing and crying as if they’ve forgotten how to sleep. Or perhaps your little bundle of joy, who was happily cooing and engaging with you, suddenly becomes clingy and cranky, refusing to be put down for even a moment. Welcome to the world of baby regressions – those pesky periods of temporary setbacks in your baby’s development.

Regressions are temporary setbacks in a baby’s development that can occur at various stages during their first year. These regressions can affect different areas of development, including sleep, feeding, motor skills, and social interaction.

Types of Baby Regressions

Let’s dive into the different types of regressions you might encounter during your baby’s first year:

1. Sleep Regression: Ah, the dreaded sleep regression – every parent’s nightmare. Just when you thought you were getting the hang of bedtime routines, your baby decides to throw a curveball and start waking up more frequently at night. This typically occurs around 4 months, 8-10 months, and again around 12 months.

2. Developmental Regression: Your baby has been hitting all the milestones like a champ – until suddenly, they seem to hit a roadblock. Developmental regressions can manifest as a temporary slowdown or even a loss of previously acquired skills, such as rolling over, sitting up, or babbling.

3. Feeding Regression: Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, feeding regressions can throw a wrench into your carefully crafted feeding schedule. Your once voracious eater may suddenly become fussy at the breast or bottle, leading to frustration for both baby and parent.

4. Social Regression: Babies are social creatures, but they can also go through phases where they become more clingy or less interested in interacting with others. Social regressions can manifest as increased fussiness, separation anxiety, or a reluctance to engage with unfamiliar faces.

Sleep regressions

One of the most common regressions that parents may experience is sleep regression. Sleep regressions typically occur around 4 months, 8-10 months, and 18 months. During these periods, babies who were previously sleeping well may suddenly start waking up more frequently during the night or have difficulty falling asleep.

It’s important to remember that sleep regressions are a normal part of a baby’s development and are often associated with growth spurts or developmental milestones. While it can be challenging for parents, it is essential to be patient and provide comfort and reassurance to your baby during these times.

Feeding regressions

Feeding regressions can also occur during the first year of a baby’s life. These regressions can manifest as a sudden refusal to eat or a decrease in appetite. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including teething, illness, or a preference for new foods.

If your baby experiences a feeding regression, it’s important to offer a variety of healthy foods and continue to offer breast milk or formula to ensure they are getting the necessary nutrients. It’s also crucial to consult with your paediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s feeding habits.

Developmental regressions

Babies go through various stages of motor skill development in their first year, such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and walking. However, it is not uncommon for babies to experience regressions in these skills.

For example, a baby who has been crawling may suddenly stop and prefer to scoot or roll instead. These regressions are often temporary and can be a result of a growth spurt or a shift in focus to another area of development.

Social regressions

Social regressions can also occur during the first year of a baby’s life. Babies who were previously comfortable with strangers may suddenly become clingy or anxious in social situations. This regression is often referred to as “stranger anxiety” and is a normal part of a baby’s social development.

During this regression, it’s important to provide a secure and comforting environment for your baby. Gradually exposing them to new people and situations can help them overcome their anxiety and regain their social confidence.

What Causes Baby Regressions?

Now that we’ve identified the different types of regressions, let’s explore what might be causing these temporary setbacks in your baby’s development:

Growth Spurts

Just like teenagers who seem to sprout overnight, babies experience rapid growth spurts during their first year of life. These growth spurts can disrupt sleep patterns, feeding routines, and even social interactions as your baby’s body and brain work overtime to keep up with their changing needs.

Developmental Milestones

As your baby grows and develops, they’ll reach a series of milestones – from rolling over to sitting up to saying their first words. While these milestones are cause for celebration, they can also be accompanied by temporary regressions as your baby’s brain focuses its energy on mastering new skills.

Teething

Ah, teething – every parent’s milestone and nightmare! As those tiny teeth start to make their way through your baby’s gums, they can wreak havoc on sleep, feeding, and overall mood. Teething-related discomfort can lead to increased fussiness, nighttime waking, and a general sense of crankiness.

Environmental Changes

Babies are highly sensitive, and even small changes in their environment can throw them off course. From travel to changes in routine to disruptions in their usual surroundings, environmental changes can trigger regressions in sleep, feeding, and behaviour.

Signs of a Regression

So, how do you know if your baby is going through a regression? Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:
- Increased fussiness or irritability, especially during previously peaceful times like bedtime or mealtime.
- Changes in sleep patterns, such as waking up more frequently at night or refusing to nap during the day.
- Difficulty feeding, whether it’s breast refusal, bottle aversion, or a sudden decrease in appetite.
- Clinginess or separation anxiety, where your baby becomes more attached to you and reluctant to be put down.
- Temporary slowdown or loss of previously acquired skills, such as rolling over, sitting up, or babbling.
Tips for Handling Baby Regressions

Now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about how to handle those inevitable baby regressions like a pro:

Stay Calm

Remember, regressions are temporary setbacks and a normal part of your baby’s development. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that this too shall pass, and try to stay calm and patient.

Stick to Routine

Babies thrive on routine, so try to maintain a consistent schedule as much as possible, even during regressions. Stick to regular mealtimes, nap times, and bedtime routines to provide a sense of stability and predictability for your little one.

Provide Comfort

During regressions, your baby may need extra comfort and reassurance from you. Offer plenty of cuddles, gentle rocking, and soothing words to help them feel secure and loved during this challenging time.

Be Flexible

While routine is important, it’s also essential to be flexible and adapt to your baby’s changing needs during regressions. If your little one is having trouble sleeping, for example, be prepared to try different soothing techniques or adjust your bedtime routine as needed.

Seek Support

Remember, you’re not in this alone! Reach out to your partner, family members, friends, or other parents for support and encouragement during regressions. Sometimes just knowing that others have been through it too can make all the difference. Consult with your paediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, baby regressions are a normal and temporary part of your little one’s development during the first year of life. By understanding the different types of regressions, what causes them, and how to handle them with grace and patience, you can navigate these challenging periods like a pro. Remember to stay calm, stick to routine, provide comfort, be flexible, and seek support when needed. And most importantly, cherish those precious moments with your baby, regressions and all, because before you know it, they’ll be in the middle of the next phase of growing up!
February 29, 2024
Baby led weaning and Infant led weaning
As a father, there’s something incredibly rewarding about being involved in every aspect of your child’s life, and that includes their first steps into the world of solids. Baby led weaning, BLW, infant led weaning, or infant weaning is a method that’s gaining popularity, and for good reason. It’s a wonderful way for you to bond with your little one while introducing them to the joys of food. This Dad Guide to Baby Led Weaning will help you understand the ins and outs and allow you to be a pro at infant led feeding.

What is Baby Led Weaning, Anyway?

Baby led weaning is all about letting your child take the lead in their journey to solid foods. Instead of purees and spoon-feeding, your baby explores and feeds themselves with finger-sized pieces of soft, cooked foods. It’s a more hands-on approach to weaning, and it empowers your child to make choices about what and how much they eat.

Why Baby Led Weaning Works for Dads

You might wonder why baby led weaning is something to explore. Well, here’s the scoop: it’s not only about letting your baby explore food independently; it’s also about making your life as a dad easier. Let me share a few reasons why baby led weaning can be your new best friend.

Less Hassle

No need to spend hours in the kitchen making and pureeing baby food. You can simply share healthy portions of your own meals with your little one, with a few modifications.

Shared Meals

Baby-led weaning allows you to eat together as a family. It’s quality bonding time while enjoying delicious food.

Independence

Your child learns to self-feed, which fosters their independence and fine motor skills.

No Spoon Feeding – Literally

Say goodbye to those airplane spoon noises and chasing your baby around with a spoonful of khichdi or ragi.

BLW with Indian Foods

In India, we have a rich tradition of introducing our babies to solids. Khichdi, mashed bananas, Ragi, dosa, and soft idlis are already popular choices. Baby led weaning can fit perfectly into this tradition, with a few adaptations. You can offer your baby soft and nutritious Indian foods like small portions of steamed veggies that would go into that khichdi, or cut pieces of dosa with some non-spicy chutney / dal / sambar as they start infant weaning. The key is to ensure that the food is easy to grasp and chew, and is bite sized.

When to Start Baby Led Weaning

Typically, BLW can begin around 6 months of age, when your baby shows signs of developmental readiness, such as:
- Sitting upright with good head control
- Reaching and grabbing objects
- Bringing objects to their mouth
While 6 months is a general guideline, remember every baby develops at their own pace. Don’t rush the process and wait for your little one to show you they’re ready.

How do you actually do BLW?

Baby led weaning is easier than you think! Here’s a quick guide:

Offer a variety of safe-to-eat foods:
- Start with soft, easily chewable foods like steamed vegetables, ripe fruits, cooked pasta, small pieces of dosa, etc.
- Avoid choking hazards like hard foods, nuts, whole grapes, etc.
- Cut food into manageable sizes and shapes for your baby’s grasp.
Let your baby lead
- Place the food on their tray or highchair.
- Encourage them to explore the food and pick it up themselves.
- Let them decide how much they want to eat and don’t force them to finish anything.
Be patient
- Baby Led Weaning can be messy! Be prepared for food splatters and stains.
- It may take some time for your baby to get the hang of self-feeding.
- Be patient, encouraging, and supportive throughout the process.
Dad Role in Baby Led Weaning

Now, let’s talk about how you, as a dad, can play a crucial role in this baby led weaning adventure. It’s not just about being a spectator; it’s about being an active participant in your child’s journey into the world of flavors.

Meal Prep

When it comes to baby led weaning, you’re the chef of the house. It’s time to whip up delicious and nutritious meals that are safe and suitable for your baby. Be sure to avoid salt, sugar, and any small, hard foods that could be choking hazards. Get creative with your recipes and enjoy the process.

Mess Management

Yes, there will be mess. In fact, there will be lots of it. But here’s the silver lining: the mess is a sign that your baby is learning, exploring, and enjoying their food. So, embrace the mess, keep those wet wipes handy, and remember that it’s all part of the experience.

Family Time

During baby led weaning, mealtime is family time. Sit down with your little one, enjoy your meal together, and lead by example. Show them how it’s done, and let them mimic your eating habits. This is a wonderful opportunity to bond and share the joy of food.

Safety Supervisor

Safety first, always. As a dad, your role includes ensuring that the eating environment is safe. Check that the high chair or booster seat is secure, remove any choking hazards, and keep a watchful eye on your baby during mealtime.

Encouragement Guru

Your words of encouragement mean the world to your child. Celebrate their small victories, cheer them on as they explore new flavors, and be patient when they’re having a tough day with their food. Your support is invaluable.

Document the Journey

Capture the baby led weaning journey with photos and videos. It’s a delightful way to look back on these memorable moments.

Challenges of BLW

While BLW has many benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some things to be aware of:
- Messy mealtimes: BLW is messy! Be prepared for food splatters, dropped food, and a sticky baby.
- Gagging and choking: BLW involves a natural gag reflex, which helps babies learn to manage food in their mouths. However, it’s important to stay vigilant and never leave your baby unattended during mealtimes.
- Nutrient intake: As your baby learns to self-feed, their intake may vary from meal to meal. Don’t worry, breastmilk or formula will still be their primary source of nutrition until they’re around 1 year old.
- Social pressure: You may face criticism or judgment for choosing BLW. Trust your instincts and follow your baby’s cues.
Conclusion: The Joy of Baby Led Weaning

Remember, dads, BLW is a journey, not a race. Enjoy the process, support your baby’s lead, and watch them blossom into confident, adventurous eaters. With a little patience and encouragement, and this handy Dad Guide to Baby Led Weaning, you can set your little one on the path to a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

Happy Weaning, Dads!
December 22, 2023
Best Places to Travel with an Infant
With a new baby in the family, you might be wondering how to plan travel and outings that are fun, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Check out our Dad Guide on Best Places to Travel with a Newborn!

Day Trips and Staycations for Infants

When the thought of a vacation feels overwhelming with a newborn, day trips and staycations are the best way to dip your toes into travelling with a newborn or a baby. Staycations and day trips are not only practical but also incredibly fun and enriching for your family. By exploring your local surroundings, you’ll introduce your baby to new experiences, cultures, and environments.

Exploring Day Trips

Day trips are perfect for a quick escape without the hassle of an overnight stay. Look for places near your home that you haven’t explored, that would be fun for the whole family. Check out our tips and suggestions for day trips with your baby.

Day Trip to Museums

Visit local historical sites or museums to introduce your baby to different environments. It will be indoors, and likely in the middle of the city so you don’t have to go too far.

Credit: Pexels Ambady Kolazhikkaran

If you plan it during a weekday, there will be fewer people and it’ll be more fun for everybody. If you’re planning a weekend day trip, explore paid trips through museums and see how your baby behaves with more people around!

Botanical Garden Day Trip

Spend a day in a local botanical garden, exploring nature’s wonders. This will allow babies to spend more time in nature and would be a good break from the heat. Pack a picnic with baby-friendly foods like mashed fruits or boiled vegetables.

Pro Tip: Find a shaded spot and introduce your baby to their first outdoor play session.

Beach Visits

If you live in coastal areas, you should take your baby to the local beach for some ocean views. Your baby would love to experience sand and water on their feet!

Pro Tip: The sound of the ocean waves is pretty much the default noise in a white noise machine so a visit to the beach is often very soothing for the baby, especially in the evenings after sunset. Let your little ones fall asleep to the real thing!

Shopping Malls

Taking your baby to shopping malls can be both practical and enjoyable. It is hard to beat the practicality of a shopping mall when it comes to introduce the world to your baby.

You are in a climate controlled environment, the distance isn’t too far, you are certain to have baby care rooms, and there will be a food court where you can sit and have a meal together!

Auto Rides

Infants love rides in the auto-rickshaw! Go ahead and rent one for an hour or so and let your infant enjoy your city in an auto!

Metro Rides

Try taking your infant on the metro to expose them to new sights and sounds. They are bound to love the climate controlled environment, especially if you took them somewhere in an auto first!

Cultural Centres

Try taking your infant to a cultural centre near you such as the Isha foundation, the Art of Living, a Dhamma centre, or anything else you can think of!

The Joy of Staycations

A staycation is a fantastic way to enjoy a break without leaving the comfort of your city. Find a beautiful farm property, a star hotel, or a spa resort in your city to break the monotony of being at home and observe how your baby behaves with changes in environment, changes in sleeping patterns, etc.

Preparing for Staycations and Day Trips with Infants

Preparation is key to a successful staycation or day trip.
- Pack Smart: Ensure you have everything you need, from baby essentials to your own comfort items.
- Safety First: Check the safety of the activities you plan to undertake, especially for your baby.
- Create an Itinerary: Plan your day or staycation activities ahead of time.
- Baby Naps: Plan your activities around your baby’s nap schedule.
- Feeding Schedule: Ensure you have the essentials for feeding, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
- Comfort Items: Pack familiar comfort items like your baby’s favorite blanket or toy.
- Essentials: Remember to pack essentials like baby wipes, diapers, and a change of clothes, and always prioritize your baby’s comfort and safety.
Making Memories: Infant Travel Photos and Souvenirs

Capture the moments and create lasting memories:
- Family Photos: Take plenty of photos to remember your day or staycation.
- Create a Keepsake: Collect a small souvenir or create a scrapbook to remember your adventure.
- Share Stories: Share your day or staycation stories with your baby as they grow.
Planning infant Travel and vacations

Travelling with an infant may seem daunting, but with the right tips and a bit of preparation, it can be an enjoyable and memorable experience. Let’s dive into the world of infant travel.

Choosing Your Destination: best places to travel with a newborn

When planning your trip with a newborn, it’s essential to pick a destination that’s suitable for both you and your baby:

Hill Stations

India’s hill stations offer a pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, which can be perfect for your baby’s first trip. If you’re in Bangalore, consider visiting places like Wayanad, Kodagu, Ooty, or Yercuad.

Beach Destinations

Coastal areas can be a great choice as the beach provides a soothing and sensory experience for your baby.

Consider flying to places like Bali that have large resorts and hotel chains where you are sure to find support to take care of your newborn.

Baby-Friendly Resorts

Look for resorts that cater to families and offer amenities like baby pools or attached private pools so you can introduce your baby to the pool and have loads of fun.

Accommodation Essentials for Infant Travel

When choosing accommodations, look for options that cater to families, and keep the following in mind:
- Baby Cots: Ensure that the hotel provides a baby cot or crib for your baby’s comfort.
- Amenities: Check if the accommodation offers baby-friendly amenities such as baby pools or babysitting services.
- Kitchen support: Speak with the shortlisted hotels to understand the level of support you can expect from the kitchen in preparing fresh meals for your baby. Some places may not have a fully functional kitchen to help you through the day – avoid such places.
- Medical Services: Check with the shortlisted hotels or online and check if there are medical services available nearby in case of unforeseen circumstances.
- Don’t go off-grid: It is generally a bad idea to go completely off-grid or to such rural areas where you would have difficulty either availing medical services or purchasing any required baby products.
Travel Essentials: Packing for Infant Travel

Packing for travelling with your infant is crucial for a smooth trip. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Diapers and Changing Supplies: Pack enough diapers, wipes, and changing mats for the journey.
- Weather appropriate Baby Clothes: Don’t forget to pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for your baby.
- Feeding Necessities: Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure you have all the essential supplies.
- Baby Carrier: A baby carrier can be a lifesaver, allowing you to keep your baby close and explore hands-free.
- Travel Stroller: A lightweight and compact stroller that easily fits in the boot of your car is ideal for travel.
- Medical Kit: Bring a basic medical kit with baby-specific items, just in case. This may include medication for colic, fever, cough, as well as prescribed supplements such as for vitamin d. Ensure you pack mosquito repellant patches / sprays.
Carrying and Feeding Your Baby

Safety should always be a priority when traveling with a newborn:
- Car Seats: Ensure you have a suitable car seat for your baby during car journeys.
- Babywearing: A baby carrier can keep your baby secure and close while you explore.
- Feeding Schedule: Stick to your baby’s feeding schedule to keep them comfortable and content.
Dad Guide to taking an infant on a Roadtrip

If you are taking an infant on a roadtrip , you can do a great deal to ensure your baby’s comfort. Here’s how to ensure they are relaxed and content during your journey:
- Scheduled Rest Stops: Plan your journey with scheduled stops for diaper changes and feeding.
- Entertainment: Bring along baby toys or mobiles to keep your little one engaged.
- Car Seats: A car seat is your best friend when it comes to road trips with your baby. It allows them a place to settle and even have nap when necessary.
- Adapt to the Baby’s Rhythm: Be flexible with your schedule and adjust it according to your baby’s needs.
Dad Guide to Flights with Newborn

Nowadays, traveling with a newborn by plane is generally inevitable. Here’s how you can make the most of the experience when you have to fly with a newborn:
- Flight Timings: Check for flights that are in line with your baby’s wake windows or sleep windows.
- Book Layovers for International Flights: For international travel, we suggest you book for flights with layovers instead of direct flights. Yes, the travel will be longer, but having a layover will help you to stretch your legs and hep your baby get some movement as well. We’ve found Changi Airport, Singapore, to be an amazing layover stop when flying internationally with our baby.
- Travel Time: Keep in mind that a flight travel would involve travelling to and from the airport. Keep the travel time in mind and ensure you travel preferably during the day, keeping in mind your baby’s sleep schedules.
- Get there early: Generally, airlines will allow priority checkin and boarding if you are travelling with an infant. That being said, try and get there early to get through security especially if you are carrying baby food.
- Carry a Stroller: Airlines will allow strollers of approved dimensions in the cabin. This means you can use the stroller until boarding and as soon as you deplane. This is immensely helpful, especially if your baby is sleepy.
- Lounges: If possible, try and use the lounge facility at the airport so you have some time to relax and let your baby relax before the flight.
- Bassinets: If the flight is of a longer duration, make sure to book well in advance and ensure you have purchased seats with a bassinet. While you wouldn’t be able to place the baby in the bassinet during takeoff or landing, it is immensely helpful when you put the baby to bed. Plus, they are usually the front row seats, ensuring you have extra legroom for the same price.
- Feed during takeoffs and landings: Make sure to feed your baby during takeoff and landing. The motion of swallowing helps ease the discomfort caused in their ears due to the air pressure.
- Packing List: Ensure you have a dedicated bag with baby essentials for the train journey. This should definitely include toys that your baby is comfortable with as well as some new toys to pique their interest.
- Baby Food: Airlines often allow you to purchase baby food, or bundle it with your infant seat booking.
- Cabin Crew: We have generally had amazing interactions with the cabin crew when we’ve flown with our baby. It always helps to be kind to them – it will help make the experience better for everyone!
For more information on traveling with infant on plane, traveling with a newborn by plane, airplane travel with infant, flying with an infant on lap, infant airplane seat, or air travel with infant, check out our Newborn And Infant Air Travel In India – FAQ’s. For an infant travel checklist, check out our post on Newborn Air Travel Checklist.

Conclusion

Travelling with a newborn can be an incredibly enriching experience for both you and your baby. With the right destination, essentials, safety measures, and a flexible attitude, you can create lasting memories while ensuring your baby’s comfort and well-being. So, go ahead and explore the stunning landscapes, delicious cuisines, and vibrant cultures that India has to offer with your little one. It’s an adventure that you’ll cherish for years to come.
December 22, 2023
Newborn and Infant Air Travel in India – FAQ’s

Traveling with a newborn or infant by plane for the first time? DadProved answers the most frequently asked questions on flying with a newborn in India.

Booking Tickets

Do I have to buy an Infant Ticket or a separate ticket for a baby?

If your child is below the age of 2 years, they are categorised as an Infant and will not need a separate ticket. Infants will be ‘tagged’ to an adult travelling with the infant.

Do I have to pay extra for an Infant?

Yes. Generally, additional fees will be payable for your infant, even though they will not have a separate seat and will be seated on your lap.

Can I buy an extra seat for comfort?

Yes, and we recommend you do!

What should I keep in mind while booking the flight ticket?

You should keep in mind the babies natural sleep schedule, and the duration it would take for you to travel door to door. We suggest the travel be in such a manner that the baby’s natural sleep schedule is not disturbed.

What are bassinet seats?

When you are travelling with an infant, airlines may offer bassinet seats – seats where a bassinet may be placed for your baby to rest for the duration of the flight. However, the baby must be in your arms during takeoff, landings, and during turbulence.

Does a bassinet seat have any other advantage?

Bassinet seats generally have a better legroom compared to the other seats.

How do I choose a bassinet seat?

In the event a bassinet seat is available on the airline and the aircraft that you are flying, you would be allowed to select a bassinet seat at the time of booking. However, please note we have not come across a bassinet on domestic flights, even after being shown / booking bassinet seats.

How do I avail a bassinet on board?

If you have selected a bassinet seat and bassinets are available on board, you can request the cabin crew to provide you with the bassinet.

Should I avoid ATR flights with an Infant?

Generally an ATR flight is louder and experiences greater disturbance during take off and landings. While sometimes an ATR flight is unavoidable, if there are non Airbus / Boeing flights available, we suggest booking those.

I am flying internationally. Should I book a direct flight or one with layover?

In our experience travelling with infants, direct flights are harder than ones with layovers. Yes, the duration is longer, but a layover allows you and your baby to stretch your legs.

Airport

Will my infant need a separate ID?

Yes. We recommend applying for a government issued ID using the baby’s birth certificate at the earliest. This may be a passport or an Aadhaar. We recommend passport because then you can fly abroad with them! We took our infant abroad when they were 9 months old.

Can I wear my baby at the airport in a baby carrier?

Yes, but you would need to take your baby out and remove the baby carrier for security clearance.

Do I get priority at security clearance / immigration?

This would depend on the airport you are at – we have seen priority lanes for families at security as well as immigration at international airports. We have seen priority security clearance at domestic airports as well.

Do I get priority boarding travelling with an infant?

Yes. If you are travelling with an infant, airlines generally provide you priority boarding. We urge you to take advantage of this so you and your infant have more time to get settled in your seat.

I am a dad travelling with my baby. Is there something that helps me?

Lookout for family toilets that will allow you to use the restroom whilst your baby is safe – they generally have a baby protection attachment on the wall where your infant rests when you use washroom.

Are family toilets available at every airport?

We have noticed family toilets at Mumbai and Bengaluru airports in India, though they may be available at other airports as well. They are generally available at international airports abroad.

Am I allowed to carry more than 100 ml fluids for baby food?

In our experience, for domestic flights in India, security screening has been very accommodating of baby food, including breast milk, formula, and other fluids and purees, including in excess of generally prescribed limits for liquids.

Can I carry a stroller?

We actually recommend that you carry a baby stroller for use at the airport.

Does my stroller count towards luggage or cabin baggage?

No. The baby stroller is not counted towards your allowed cabin weight, nor does it count as your cabin baggage.

Does my baby’s diaper bag count as an additional baggage?

No, your baby’s diaper bag does not count as additional cabin baggage.

Can I take this stroller on board the flight?

This would depend on the size of your stroller and whether it would fit in the overhead compartments. Generally you would be requested to hand the stroller over to ground staff at at the time of boarding which would then be made available to you once you arrive at your destination. If your stroller is indeed flight compatible you may take it on board although this is generally a hassle.

Flight

Should I buy something for the flight?

We have found it helpful to have new toys so that the infants interest is maintained for the duration of the flight.

What are Infant lap belts?

Infant lap belt is a closed loop belt that is placed around your baby your lap belt is hooked through it.

Are Infant lap belts provided in India?

This would depend on the airline that you are flying.

Will I be provided infant food on board?

This would again depend on the airline that you are flying and if it is domestic leg of an international flight or a purely domestic flight. When we flew with Singapore Airlines we could reserve baby food which was offered by the cabin crew onboard. However we have not seen this happen on purely domestic flights.

Can my Infant be breastfed on the plane?

Yes.

Can I change diapers on the plane?

Yes, but we really do not reccommend you do, unless of course your baby poops on the flight, in which case you are in for a slightly difficult diaper change. There is usually only one bathroom equipped with a changing station which is basically a slab that folds down and rests on top of the toilet bowl. It is small, cold, hard, and may be kinda angled due to the flight trajectory. While you can definitely change a diaper there, we strongly recommend changing diapers at the Airport.

Conclusion

Flying with an infant, especially the first time, can be challenging and frightening. We hope this guide has helped allay your fears and you are ready for your infant to take to the skies!

December 21, 2023
Newborn Air Travel Checklist
The complete DadProved Dad Guide to newborn travel checklist, including tips for air travel with infant.

Infant Travel Checklist

Packing appropriately for your flight with a newborn is crucial to ensuring a smooth trip. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Diapers and Changing Supplies: Pack enough diapers, wipes, and changing mats for the journey. Make sure to include puppy pads, poop bags, as well as a portable diaper changing mat – trust us, the diaper changing station on the standard B737-800 flights are and you will sorely miss one should you forget to pack this.
- Weather appropriate Baby Clothes: Don’t forget to pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for your baby.
- New Toys: Pack some new toys that your infant has not seen before so their interest is maintained in the new toy.
- Feeding Necessities: Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure you have all the essential supplies, including water for babies above 6 months of age. They also get thirsty on flights.
- Baby Carrier: A baby carrier can be a lifesaver, allowing you to keep your baby close and explore airports hands-free.
- Travel Stroller: A lightweight and compact stroller is a lifesaver when it comes to traveling with a newborn by plane, especially if there are layovers. Even otherwise, you are allowed to carry the stroller till the boarding gate, or even in the flight if your’d like (and it fits the prescribed size). If your baby insists on being in your arms instead, the newborn travel system / travel stroller becomes a luggage carrier for the diaper bag and other handbags!
- Medical Kit: Bring a basic medical kit with baby-specific items, just in case. This may include medication for colic, fever, cough, as well as prescribed supplements.
Tips for Air Travel With Infant

Nowadays, traveling with a newborn by plane is generally inevitable. Here’s how you can make the most of the experience when you have to fly with a newborn:
- Flight Timings: Check for flights that are in line with your baby’s wake windows or sleep windows.
- Book Layovers for International Flights: For international travel, we suggest you book for flights with layovers instead of direct flights. Yes, the travel will be longer, but having a layover will help you to stretch your legs and hep your baby get some movement as well. We’ve found Changi Airport, Singapore, to be an amazing layover stop when flying internationally with our baby.
- Travel Time: Keep in mind that a flight travel would involve travelling to and from the airport. Keep the travel time in mind and ensure you travel preferably during the day, keeping in mind your baby’s sleep schedules.
- Get there early: Generally, airlines will allow priority checkin and boarding if you are travelling with an infant. That being said, try and get there early to get through security especially if you are carrying baby food.
- Carry a Stroller: Airlines will allow strollers of approved dimensions in the cabin. This means you can use the stroller until boarding and as soon as you deplane. This is immensely helpful, especially if your baby is sleepy.
- Lounges: If possible, try and use the lounge facility at the airport so you have some time to relax and let your baby relax before the flight.
- Family Toilets: Look out for Family Toilets to change your baby instead of the usual baby care rooms or the changing stations in the gender segregated bathrooms. Family Toilets are a boon – allowing the entire family to use the space at the same time so you may use the washroom while your partner changes your baby’s diaper or vice versa. Even if you are travelling alone, we strongly recommend Family Toilets because they have the wall mounted infant protection system so your baby stays in one place! We have seen Family Toilets in Mumbai and Bengaluru (T2) Airports in India.
- Bassinets: If the flight is of a longer duration, make sure to book well in advance and ensure you have purchased seats with a bassinet. While you wouldn’t be able to place the baby in the bassinet during takeoff or landing, it is immensely helpful when you put the baby to bed. Plus, they are usually the front row seats, ensuring you have extra legroom for the same price.
- Feed during takeoffs and landings: IF they are awake, try to feed your baby during takeoff and landing. The motion of swallowing / chewing helps ease the discomfort caused in their ears due to the air pressure.
- Packing List: Ensure you have a dedicated bag with baby essentials for the train journey. This should definitely include toys that your baby is comfortable with as well as some new toys to pique their interest.
- Baby Food: Airlines often allow you to purchase baby food, or bundle it with your infant seat booking.
- Be Kind to the Cabin Crew: We have generally had amazing interactions with the cabin crew when we’ve flown with our baby. It always helps to be kind to them – it will help make the experience better for everyone!
Conclusion

Airplane travel with a newborn can be an incredibly enriching experience for both you and your baby. With the right planning, essentials, and a flexible attitude, you can create lasting memories while ensuring your baby’s comfort and well-being. So, go ahead and explore the stunning landscapes, delicious cuisines, and vibrant cultures that the world has to offer with your little one.

If you still have questions, check out our FAQ’s on Newborn Air Travel in India.
December 21, 2023