Making the Most of Your Maternity & Paternity Leave: Seattle's Top Activities for Parents and Little Ones

Becoming a parent is an incredible journey—and those first few months on maternity or paternity leave can be as enriching as they are challenging. As you embark on this new adventure, Seattle has so much to offer that can make your days with your newborn meaningful and memorable. From meeting other parents to finding local resources, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time with your little one.

1. Build Your Village with Parent-Child Classes & Support Groups

Transitioning to parenthood is easier with a supportive community, and that's precisely what we offer at the Heybrook. Our range of expert-led classes and community circles welcomes parents in every phase of early parenthood. Here, you can:

• Join our Parent & Baby Development Classes: These classes offer a perfect mix of bonding time and gentle activities that encourage your baby’s growth while connecting you with other parents on a similar path.

• Drop into Community Circles: Meet other new moms, dads, and caregivers in our monthly circles—an ideal place to swap stories, share advice, and connect with those who understand what you’re going through.

• Explore Expert Q&A Sessions: From babywearing to newborn care, get personalized answers to your questions and navigate new-parent life with confidence.

Being part of a community makes a big difference, especially on those challenging days. Our classes and groups are designed to be nurturing spaces where you can be yourself, knowing that everyone is in the same boat.

2. Discover Local Parks and Baby-Friendly Trails

Seattle’s natural beauty is a perfect backdrop for a peaceful stroll with your little one, and fresh air can do wonders for both of you. Consider these family-friendly spots:

• Discovery Park: With scenic views and stroller-friendly trails, this expansive park is an ideal escape from the city.

• Washington Park Arboretum: Full of beautiful paths, the Arboretum is a relaxing spot to explore the seasons with your baby.

• Green Lake Park: A classic choice, the paved trail around the lake is perfect for walking with a stroller or baby carrier. Plus, there’s a nearby playground for future visits as your little one grows.

Being out in nature is grounding and refreshing, and Seattle’s many parks are open and free—a perfect match for those first days as a new parent.

3. Try a Local Parent-Child Fitness Class

Staying active with a baby can be challenging, but there are so many options in Seattle to help you move, bond, and boost your mood:

• Baby-Wearing Fitness Classes at The Heybrook: These classes let you enjoy light exercise while your baby stays close, encouraging bonding and fitness simultaneously.

• Stroller-Friendly Workouts at Green Lake or Alki Beach: Several Seattle groups and trainers host stroller-based workouts, perfect for bringing along your little one.

• Yoga with Baby: Find balance and relaxation at a local baby-and-me yoga class, where stretches are gentle, mindful, and designed for new parents.

Incorporating gentle exercise helps you stay energized and builds strength, and doing it in a supportive community makes it that much more enjoyable.

4. Seek Out Educational Workshops and Resources

The Seattle area is full of valuable resources that can support your parenting journey. At the Heybrook, we offer workshops in newborn care, infant CPR, and topics like sleep strategies or breastfeeding support. Learning these practical skills gives you more confidence in your parenting abilities and can relieve some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with the territory.

We also offer a trusted Provider Directory to connect you with local experts in fields like lactation, pediatric health, postpartum care, and more. Finding a provider you can trust makes a big difference, and having a place to turn to for advice is invaluable.

5. Explore Kid-Friendly Libraries & Indoor Spaces

Seattle’s many libraries are a haven for parents on leave. These welcoming spaces have cozy corners, baby storytime sessions, and comfortable seating for feeding or cuddling. The Seattle Public Library system also offers parent-child programs that make it easy to meet other local families and introduce your little one to books and social time.

On rainy days days, places like the Heybrook’s Parent Lounge are ideal for a cozy afternoon. Our lounge has comfortable spaces for you to relax, change, or feed your baby and chat with other parents. It’s designed to feel like a home away from home, where you can make connections and take your time.

6. Capture the Moments with a Local Photography Session

You’ll cherish the early days with your baby, and scheduling a newborn or family photography session can help you document the magic. Seattle has a wealth of talented family photographers who can create beautiful keepsakes of this fleeting time. A cozy home session or a natural outdoor setting makes for a relaxed photo experience, capturing genuine moments you’ll hold onto forever.

Seattle’s unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit makes it an ideal city to raise a family, and taking advantage of these resources on your parental leave can be incredibly fulfilling. The Heybrook is here to be your trusted resource, helping you connect, learn, and grow in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether it’s meeting other parents in a development class, taking a baby-wearing fitness session, or relaxing in our Parent Lounge, our doors are open to help make this precious time with your little one as enriching as it is memorable.