[Why should babies be exposed to nature more often?]
*Urban babies have a higher rate of allergies
Director Xu Renfu stated that according to expert research, the proportion of urban babies suffering from allergies is significantly higher than that of rural babies, indicating that outdoor life tends to be healthier. The study also shows that although there are more natural allergens outdoors, exposure to them may actually help promote the maturation of the immune system (whereas artificial allergens are less tolerable to the human body and do not aid immune development).
There are many natural allergens, including small animals. In the past, some studies suggested that infants should be kept away from pets like cats and dogs. However, later research refuted this theory and even suggested that early exposure to cats and dogs may reduce the likelihood of developing allergies to them. In fact, contact with small animals can begin during the newborn stage. Additionally, we encourage children to play in the sand outdoors—these natural elements contain allergens, but they aren’t necessarily harmful to babies.
*Outdoor air is fresher with fewer pathogens
In fact, most viruses and diseases are transmitted from person to person, so in densely populated areas, the viral load is higher. Many parents enjoy taking their babies to department stores or large malls on weekends, but during peak disease seasons, the risk of infection is greater in crowded places.
Director Xu Renfu pointed out, “We can’t keep babies in a sterile environment forever—there will inevitably be bacteria outdoors.” At least the air is fresher outside, such as in the mountains or countryside, where the air is cleaner, the crowds are smaller, and the spaces are more open, resulting in a relatively lower viral load and thus a lower chance of babies getting sick.
[What planning and preparation are needed for a trip?]
Here are some key points parents should pay attention to:
Key Point 1 / Big difference in stamina between adults and children
Children have much lower stamina than adults and tend to get tired quickly when going out. Moreover, babies can’t sit still for long periods, whether in a car or on a plane, and their tolerance is limited. Adults shouldn’t just consider things from their own perspective but should think more about their babies. Director Xu Renfu said, “A tired child is more exhausting than a tired adult!”
Key Point 2 / Choose seasons and destinations with moderate temperatures
It’s not suitable to take babies to extremely cold or hot places, such as snowy areas with extreme climates, which are generally not ideal for babies. If planning a trip, spring and autumn are relatively better seasons for taking babies out.
Key Point 3 / It’s recommended to break the trip into segments
When planning the itinerary, prioritize the baby. Parents should act within their limits and it’s advisable to travel in segments, taking breaks after visiting each place.