{"id":20395,"date":"2026-08-26T10:00:25","date_gmt":"2026-08-26T01:00:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/%e3%82%ab%e3%83%86%e3%82%b4%e3%83%aa%e3%83%bc%e3%81%aa%e3%81%97\/make-it-easier-and-more-fun-a-collection-of-life-hacks-for-outings-with-kids\/"},"modified":"2026-08-26T10:00:25","modified_gmt":"2026-08-26T01:00:25","slug":"make-it-easier-and-more-fun-a-collection-of-life-hacks-for-outings-with-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/couple-en\/make-it-easier-and-more-fun-a-collection-of-life-hacks-for-outings-with-kids\/","title":{"rendered":"Make It Easier and More Fun! A Collection of Life Hacks for Outings with Kids"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0813_2_odekake_lifehack01-1-500x333.png\" alt=\"Make It Easier and More Fun! A Collection of Life Hacks for Outings with Kids (Image)\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0813_2_odekake_lifehack01-1-500x333.png 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0813_2_odekake_lifehack01-1-200x133.png 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0813_2_odekake_lifehack01-1-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0813_2_odekake_lifehack01-1.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>\u3000While going out with children is fun, there are also plenty of times when things don\u2019t go as planned\u2014such as when they get fussy during the trip or when there are long waits at restaurants.<br \/>\u3000In this article, based on a survey of parents with preschool-aged children, we\u2019ll share practical tips that have actually been helpful, as well as some common experiences.<br \/>\u3000We also asked mamaco\u2014who draws on her experience as a kindergarten teacher and childcare worker to share tips on making parenting easier\u2014for advice on how to enjoy outings without feeling overwhelmed.<br \/>\u3000Please use these tips as a guide to make your next outing a little easier.<\/p>\n<h3>Table of Contents<\/h3>\n<ul class=\"mokuji\">\n<li><a href=\"#link1\">1. Tips and Tricks for Outings: What You Need to Know!<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link2\">2. We\u2019ve All Been There! Common Scenarios When Going Out<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link3\">3. Don&#8217;t Push Yourself Too Hard! Getting Ready to Go Out<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 id=\"link1\">1. Tips and Tricks for Travel: What You Should Know to Make the Most of Your Trip<\/h4>\n<h5>Make Every Outing &#8220;Special&#8221;<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Turn the act of traveling itself\u2014whether it\u2019s taking a bus or taxi you don\u2019t usually take, or riding in the front car of a train\u2014into a \u201cspecial event.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Even if you&#8217;re not going on a trip or a long outing, you can make things feel special just by adding a different park, a new route home, or a different bakery to your usual routine.<\/li>\n<li>To make sure they have fun on our outings, we show them scenery they don&#8217;t usually get to see and let them play the capsule toy machines.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare special treats (such as lollipops, which aren&#8217;t usually served, or treats that come with a bonus) as a &#8220;special treat just for today.&#8221; This is more effective than the usual snacks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/001-500x333.png\" alt=\"Images from \"Useful Tips and Tricks for Outings\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20323\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/001-500x333.png 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/001-200x133.png 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/001-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/001.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: For children<\/span>, even a slight sense of something out of the ordinary can be a special experience <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">. Even in a familiar place, simply changing your perspective a little can open up new ways to have fun.<\/span> It\u2019s also a good idea to focus on small things, like \u201cmaking a little detour.\u201d I also recommend setting a simple theme before heading out, such as \u201cLet\u2019s look for something yellow today\u201d or \u201cLet\u2019s observe the sky on the way there.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Give Snacks and Playtime in Small Doses to Prevent \u201cBoredom\u201d and \u201cFussiness\u201d<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Don&#8217;t show all the snacks and mini toys at once; instead, bring them out little by little depending on the situation\u2014such as while traveling, while waiting for an order, or on the way home.<\/li>\n<li>Instead of waiting until they start fussing and then hurriedly handing it to them, give it to them early on when it looks like they&#8217;ll have to wait a long time.<\/li>\n<li>If you save a \u201cspecial\u201d treat for the trip home, it can help prevent your child from saying, \u201cI don\u2019t want to go home.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/002-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"Image: Prevent \"Boredom\" and \"Fussiness\" by Serving Snacks and Playtime in \"Small Doses\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20328\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/002-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/002-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/002-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/002.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: Kids<\/span> love anything new. But at the same time, they tend to get bored easily. It\u2019s very effective to reveal things \u201clittle by little\u201d rather than showing them all at once! <br \/> Also, once they\u2019re old enough to understand what\u2019s coming next, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">I recommend getting them involved in packing their belongings.<\/span> By letting them participate, they\u2019ll learn to think, \u201cNext time, I\u2019ll bring this.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Items to pass the time are easy to find<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>The sticker books sold at 100-yen shops come in handy when traveling by train or waiting for a table at a restaurant. They come in all kinds of themes\u2014from popular characters to animals, vehicles, shopping, and food\u2014so I always check them out whenever I go shopping.<\/li>\n<li>Sticker books are lighter than picture books, and you don&#8217;t have to worry about charging them like you do with a smartphone.<\/li>\n<li>Having a small toy set aside specifically for outings helps keep things fresh.<\/li>\n<li>When you&#8217;re outdoors, bringing things like soap bubbles can be a nice change of pace when the kids get tired of the playground equipment.<\/li>\n<li>We also incorporate games that require no equipment, such as the \u201cColor Game\u201d (finding objects of a certain color), which can be played anywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/003-500x333.png\" alt=\"Images of easy-to-find items to pass the time\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/003-500x333.png 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/003-200x133.png 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/003-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/003.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: Kids<\/span> are <span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">so<\/span> moody. Since you never know what will catch their interest from one day to the next, you naturally want to bring along all sorts of things to try every trick in the book. That\u2019s why <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">I recommend toys for outings that are \u201clight, compact, and provide hours of play.\u201d<\/span> For example, string games and coloring books are great options, and if your child likes pretend play, finger puppets work well. With just some paper and a pen, you can play tic-tac-toe or have a drawing contest\u2014they\u2019re incredibly versatile.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Keep the items you use every day in your &#8220;on-the-go kit&#8221; to reduce stress<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>If you put each diaper in its own plastic bag, you\u2019ll have a set that\u2019s ready to use right away when it\u2019s time for a diaper change.<\/li>\n<li>Pack a set of underwear, pants, and socks together in a Ziploc bag or clear pouch.<\/li>\n<li>I&#8217;ll carry two bags: a crossbody bag for items I&#8217;ll use right away and a backpack for bulky items.<\/li>\n<li>Put your usual essentials in a small bag, and when you go on a long trip, put that small bag inside a larger bag to make sure you don\u2019t forget to transfer your belongings.<\/li>\n<li>If you&#8217;re traveling by car, make sure to keep essentials like diapers and baby wipes in the car in case you need them suddenly.<\/li>\n<li>Portable hand soap and paper soap are a lifesaver when there\u2019s no soap in park restrooms or before snack time after playing in the sandbox.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: When you&#8217;re out and about<\/span>, it&#8217;s easy to get frustrated just because you can&#8217;t find what you need right away. <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">It&#8217;s a good idea to organize everything so that anyone can see where things are<\/span>. <br \/>If only Mom or only Dad is always in charge of packing your child&#8217;s belongings, it can lead to trouble when something gets left behind. Don&#8217;t forget that going out starts with packing, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">and it&#8217;s also important to show appreciation to whoever did the packing<\/span>!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Choose Versatile Items Based on Their \u201cMultiple Uses\u201d<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Baby wipes can also be used as a substitute for wet towels.<\/li>\n<li>Plastic bags can be used for a wide range of purposes, from trash and wet items to small stones and leaves you\u2019ve picked up, and even as a quick fix for sudden nausea.<\/li>\n<li>Character-themed band-aids aren&#8217;t just for treating injuries; they also help you shift your mindset after a fall.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> Be careful not to bring too many baby items! <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">If you keep in mind the idea of \u201cone item serving multiple purposes,\u201d you can avoid overpacking.<\/span> A single towel is a versatile item that comes in handy. It\u2019s useful in a variety of situations\u2014whether it\u2019s soothing a fussy baby, serving as a bib during mealtime, or as a light cover-up when it\u2019s a bit chilly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>A Little Tip for Eating Out<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>If you have a pair of kitchen shears, you can cut noodles and larger pieces of food into bite-sized pieces.<\/li>\n<li>Small packets of furikake are great for adding variety to plain white rice or as a go-to solution when you&#8217;re not in the mood to eat.<\/li>\n<li>If you take the children&#8217;s orders first, it&#8217;s easier to keep them from getting fussy from hunger while they wait for their food.<\/li>\n<li>Handheld fans aren&#8217;t just for beating the summer heat\u2014they can also be used to cool down hot rice.<\/li>\n<li>Fish sausages for kids and pouch-style baby food come in handy as a quick fix when there\u2019s nothing else to eat while out and about.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/004-500x333.jpeg\" alt=\"Images of Creative Ideas for Dining Out\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/004-500x333.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/004-200x133.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/004-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/004.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: When you\u2019re eating out<\/span> and the wait gets long, both parents and children tend to get frustrated <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">.<\/span> In situations like that, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">one strategy is to bring out \u201crestaurant toys\u201d<\/span> once you\u2019ve been seated and placed your order <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">.<\/span> Having special toys that they can only play with when eating out creates the excitement of \u201cYou can play with these while we wait,\u201d making the wait more bearable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>The Key Is to Plan Ahead for Restroom Breaks, Breastfeeding, and Diaper Changes<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>When you arrive at your destination, the first thing to do is check where the restrooms and diaper-changing stations are located.<\/li>\n<li>When you spot a restroom, say, \u201cIt\u2019s a good idea to go now just to be safe,\u201d to help prevent sudden \u201cI have to pee!\u201d moments.<\/li>\n<li>If you encourage your child to use the bathroom when transitioning between playtime and travel, they\u2019ll be more likely to go along with it.<\/li>\n<li>Check in advance to see if there is a nursing room, hot water for formula, a microwave, and menu items suitable for children.<\/li>\n<li>If you&#8217;re traveling by train with a stroller, be sure to check the locations of elevators near transfer stations and ticket gates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> It\u2019s nerve-wracking to worry <span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">about restroom breaks and diaper<\/span> changes, isn\u2019t it? It\u2019s reassuring to check things out in advance, but it\u2019s okay if you forget.If you ask a store clerk or someone nearby, they\u2019ll often be happy to help. It can be stressful to think, \u201cI have to figure this out on my own,\u201d but <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">if you keep in mind that \u201cit\u2019ll be fine if I just ask someone,\u201d the pressure to be perfect will ease.<\/span> Plus, seeing you ask for help is a valuable learning experience for your child.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Don&#8217;t forget to take precautions against the heat, cold, and carrying your baby.<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Bring a cooling blanket that can hold ice packs, or a soup thermos with extra ice packs inside.<\/li>\n<li>If you place a cold pack wrapped in a diaper that\u2019s too small for your child inside the back of the diaper, it will absorb any condensation even after the cold pack melts, making it easier to use.<\/li>\n<li>It\u2019s reassuring to have clothes that can adapt to temperature changes\u2014like a light blanket on hot days or short-sleeved shirts on chilly days.<\/li>\n<li>A lightweight blanket. It\u2019s useful for protecting against air conditioning or a chill, and can also serve as a substitute for a comforter when you get sleepy.<\/li>\n<li>Even on days when you use a stroller, having a baby carrier on hand makes it easier to handle situations where your baby refuses the stroller or gets fussy when sleepy.<\/li>\n<li>For children who have grown a little, a hip seat\u2014which is easier to put on and take off than a baby carrier\u2014can be helpful.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: Children<\/span> often have a hard time expressing how they feel\u2014such as \u201cI\u2019m hot,\u201d \u201cI\u2019m cold,\u201d or \u201cI\u2019m thirsty.\u201d To help them stay healthy, take proactive measures \u201cbefore your child complains.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>&#8220;I Don&#8217;t Want to Go Home!&#8221;\u2014How to Deal With It<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Give specific guidelines for when to finish, such as, \u201cLet\u2019s go home after we slide down the slide five more times.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;Which would you prefer: going home after doing XX, or going home after doing \u25b3\u25b3?&#8221; I present the options.<\/li>\n<li>Plan some special stops or your favorite snacks along the way to make the trip home fun, too.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> It\u2019s a great idea to agree on a time to go home in advance or offer some options. I think some children have a hard time transitioning, so setting an end time a little earlier gives you some breathing room.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4 id=\"link2\">2. We\u2019ve All Been There! Common Scenarios When Going Out<\/h4>\n<h5>The &#8220;I&#8217;m Hungry!&#8221; Problem<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>He couldn&#8217;t wait for the food to arrive and burst into tears. It took a while to calm him down. Since then, I&#8217;ve made sure to place the child&#8217;s order first.<\/li>\n<li>When we went out to eat, there weren&#8217;t any dishes on the menu that my child could eat. Since then, I&#8217;ve been checking in advance.<\/li>\n<li>It took longer than expected, and he got fussy because he was hungry. Even if you don&#8217;t plan on eating out, it&#8217;s a good idea to keep a banana in your backpack just in case.<\/li>\n<li>Since there have been times when I\u2019ve fallen asleep on the way home and haven\u2019t woken up even when it\u2019s time for dinner, I\u2019ve decided to eat dinner or a light meal before heading out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: If<\/span> you\u2019re breastfeeding, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">I also recommend ready-to-drink formula.<\/span> Unlike powdered formula, there\u2019s no need to mix or cool it down\u2014you can feed it to your baby right away, and it\u2019s hygienic too. Since your baby might refuse it if they try it for the first time while out and about, make sure to get them used to it at home beforehand. <br \/>\u3000 <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">It\u2019s<\/span> also <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">useful in case of a disaster<\/span>, so it\u2019s a good idea to <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">keep a slightly larger supply on hand while<\/span> using it for your regular outings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/005-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"Image related to the \"I'm hungry!\" issue\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20347\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/005-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/005-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/005-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/005.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h5>Water Play and Accidents Happen Suddenly! The Pitfalls of Changing Clothes<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>It\u2019s always on the days I go out without a change of clothes that the kids start playing in the water, and I end up soaking wet. On days we go to the park, I check in advance to see if there\u2019s a water play area.<\/li>\n<li>Even though it wasn&#8217;t planned, they started playing in the water and mud and got completely covered in mud. They went home like that and caught a cold.<\/li>\n<li>I had an accident while out. I had a change of clothes with me, but no socks, so I bought some there.<\/li>\n<li>I forgot to bring a change of underwear, so I had an accident. I spent the day without any underwear on.<\/li>\n<li>While potty training, we went out without diapers at his request. Even when I urged him to use the bathroom, he insisted, \u201cI\u2019m not going,\u201d but sure enough, he had an accident. I\u2019ve started carrying at least a change of clothes with me even when we\u2019re just out in the neighborhood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/006-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"Water Play and Accidents Happen Suddenly! Images of the Pitfalls of Changing Clothes\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/006-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/006-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/006-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/006.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: During<\/span> potty <span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">training<\/span>, accidents are a natural part of the process. What you want to avoid in those moments is panicking and thinking, \u201cWhat should I do!?\u201d It\u2019s reassuring <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">to always have a \u201cchange of clothes set\u201d\u2014<\/span> consisting of underwear, pants, and socks\u2014 <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">ready<\/span> to go. <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">When parents are prepared and can respond calmly, it\u2019s easier to accept their child\u2019s accidents without blaming them<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>&#8220;Carry Mode&#8221; and the &#8220;Too Much Luggage&#8221; Problem<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>On my way home from shopping, my child went into \u201ccarry-me mode,\u201d and it was a real hassle with shopping bags in both hands.<\/li>\n<li>At a self-service restaurant, I went into \u201cbaby-holding mode\u201d and gave up on eating my own meal.<\/li>\n<li>Even though I\u2019d gone out with the stroller, on the way home my child said, \u201cI want to be carried,\u201d so I carried my child in one arm and pushed the stroller with the other.<\/li>\n<li>I packed too much, so it was a hassle to fold up the stroller.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: \u201c<\/span> My kid won\u2019t ride in the stroller even though we have one\u2026\u201d\u2014that\u2019s a common struggle, isn\u2019t it? Between your shopping bags, the stroller, and carrying your child, I\u2019m sure there are plenty of times when it\u2019s just too much. <br \/>\u3000When things get too tough, it\u2019s perfectly fine to just give up on shopping and head home. Since shopping with your child can be exhausting, stick to buying only the bare essentials, and use online grocery services for large, bulky items, or things you don\u2019t need right away!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>The &#8220;Crunchy&#8221; Baby Wipes Problem<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>When I tried to use the baby wipes for the first time in a while, they were dry, so I couldn&#8217;t wipe at all. I should have checked them before leaving.<\/li>\n<li>Since baby wipes are so versatile, I always check how many are left and how moist they are before heading out.<\/li>\n<li>It\u2019s reassuring to keep an unopened spare in my bag or car. I make a point of replacing them regularly\u2014for example, by using the ones that are starting to dry out for cleaning.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> As kids get a little older, you tend to use baby wipes less often, so sometimes you find they\u2019ve dried out just when you need them, right? Even wipes that have become completely dry can be put to good use as disposable cleaning wipes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Close Calls, Such as a Dead Phone Battery or Getting Lost<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>My phone ran out of battery in a park far from the station, so I made my way back to the station relying solely on my memory.<\/li>\n<li>Since we often rely on our smartphones for maps, communication, and payments, it\u2019s reassuring to have a portable charger on hand.<\/li>\n<li>Based on my experience of losing my child for a moment while I wasn&#8217;t looking, I make sure to decide on a meeting place in advance and let everyone know.<\/li>\n<li>In case of a sudden illness, I have my child\u2019s pediatric clinic registration card, health insurance card, maternal and child health handbook, and medication record book ready.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: These days<\/span>, there are more and more situations where you need your smartphone while you\u2019re out and about. There are services that let you rent portable chargers at train stations and convenience stores, so they can come in handy in a pinch. <br \/>\u3000Also, if you let your guard down just because you have a smartphone, you might find yourself without a signal. GPS devices for children are convenient, but it\u2019s important not to become complacent just because you have one. <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">Think of these handy tools as a safety net,<\/span> and for peace of mind <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">, make sure to establish basic precautions\u2014such as agreements on what to do if your child gets lost<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4 id=\"link3\">3. Don&#8217;t Push Yourself Too Hard! Getting Ready to Go Out<\/h4>\n<h5>For now, &#8220;safety first&#8221; is fine.<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Set your goals low\u2014to the point where you can say, \u201cJust being alive is enough.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>I believe that getting there and back safely is the most important thing.<\/li>\n<li>We\u2019re okay with minor mishaps, such as getting clothes dirty or forgetting a toy.<\/li>\n<li>It&#8217;s okay if we don&#8217;t eat out or don&#8217;t play much at the playground.<\/li>\n<li>If your husband or wife takes the kids out alone, don\u2019t complain about dirty clothes or forgotten items\u2014start by expressing your gratitude.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco: The more serious and responsible<\/span> you are, the more likely you are to feel like you \u201chave to do everything perfectly.\u201d Since you tend to fall into a \u201cpoint deduction\u201d mindset, it\u2019s a great idea to set your goals a little lower. When you find yourself getting down about something\u2014like \u201cmy clothes got dirty\u201d\u2014try adding \u201cbut\u201d right after that. That way, you\u2019ll naturally start to notice the positive things!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Keep your schedule flexible and have multiple options<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>If you limit yourself to just one plan, it&#8217;s easier to get back on track if things don&#8217;t go as planned.<\/li>\n<li>Set your standards for success low\u2014for example, \u201cIt\u2019s okay if you get half of what you planned done\u201d or \u201caim for an 80.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>If the playground isn&#8217;t a good fit, have an alternative plan ready, such as going to a nearby park or library.<\/li>\n<li>If you plan to go out two days in a row, take your own stamina into account\u2014for example, by staying close to home or visiting an indoor play area the day after a long trip.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/007-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"An image showing a flexible schedule with multiple options\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/007-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/007-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/007-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/007.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> When you think, \u201cIt\u2019s a rare day off, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">\u201d<\/span> it\u2019s easy to end up cramming your schedule full of plans <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">. However, if you set just one goal for the day\u2014something like \u201cI\u2019ll be satisfied as long as I can do this\u201d\u2014you\u2019ll find it easier to feel fulfilled.<\/span> Also, when you\u2019re feeling tired, don\u2019t push yourself too hard <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">.<\/span> Instead, you might try a \u201cstay-at-home outing,\u201d like playing \u201ccamp\u201d in your living room <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Exciting for Parents and Kids Alike! We Value the Desire to \u201cGo\u201d<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Experience the joy of visiting places your parents have always wanted to see, as well as new places, together with your children.<\/li>\n<li>Incorporate not only places that children will enjoy, but also small touches of the parents\u2019 favorite bakeries, cafes, and parks.<\/li>\n<li>Even on overnight trips, I check out parks and make sure to include time for the kids to have fun, even if it\u2019s not at a major tourist attraction.<\/li>\n<li>Even when something unexpected happens, try to enjoy it as a memory that\u2019s unique to this moment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> Instead of wondering, \u201cHow should I pass the time with my kids\u2026 <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">,<\/span> \u201d <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">just think, \u201cSince we have time, let\u2019s go somewhere I\u2019ve been wanting to visit.\u201d That simple shift in mindset will change your motivation to go out.<\/span><br \/>Kids love getting a glimpse into their parents\u2019 world\u2014a world they don\u2019t know. It\u2019s a great idea to take them to a place you don\u2019t usually go and say, \u201cThis is the caf\u00e9 that Dad\/Mom really loves,\u201d so you can enjoy that slightly sophisticated atmosphere together.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Don&#8217;t push yourself too hard\u2014take care of yourself<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>Before getting frustrated, parents should take a break, too.<\/li>\n<li>Even for short distances, choose a mode of transportation that isn&#8217;t too taxing, such as taking a train or a taxi.<\/li>\n<li>On my way home from a solo outing, I buy myself a little treat, like my favorite dessert.<\/li>\n<li>Don&#8217;t forget to bring your parents&#8217; own over-the-counter medications, such as headache medicine and motion sickness medicine.<\/li>\n<li>If you get everything ready before the kids wake up, you can reduce the stress right before you leave.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span> It\u2019s easy to end up putting your kids first, <span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">but it\u2019s really important not to forget to take care of yourself, too.<\/span> When parents are sleep-deprived or feeling under the weather, even small things can make them irritable, and their judgment can be clouded, making it hard to handle problems effectively. <br \/>\u3000It\u2019s also a great idea to treat yourself to your favorite sweets! If you\u2019re not feeling quite up to it first thing in the morning, I recommend taking care of yourself first\u2014for example, by asking your child to come along and grab your favorite coffee before heading out.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5>Let&#8217;s go out together as a family<\/h5>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: bold;\">\n<li>If your child is old enough to understand, tell them, \u201cIt\u2019s just Dad or Mom here today, so it would really help if you could do whatever you can.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>When you can&#8217;t carry them, explain why\u2014for example, &#8220;My bags are heavy, so let&#8217;s walk a little.&#8221;<\/li>\n<li>Offer alternatives, such as, \u201cIt\u2019s hard to hold you, but how about a big hug instead?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/008-500x333.png\" alt=\"Image: Let's Go Out Together as a Family\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20380\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/008-500x333.png 500w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/008-200x133.png 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/008-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/008.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 90%;max-width:950px; background-color: #fffaf0; margin: 15px auto; padding: 15px 30px; border-radius: 20px;\">\n<p style=\"margin:0; padding:0;\"><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">mamaco:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: bold; background: linear-gradient(transparent 50%,#ffc0cb 50%);\">Surprisingly, children are actually happy when their parents rely on them<\/span>. When they help you, telling them, \u201cThat really helped\u2014thank you,\u201d gives them the confidence that they were able to be of use.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>\u3000You don\u2019t have to try all the ideas we\u2019ve shared here. As long as you make it home safely from your outing, that\u2019s enough. We hope these little tips will help make your family outings a little easier and more enjoyable.<\/p>\n<div class=\"prf-2clm\">\n<div style=\"width: 90%; max-width:950px; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 0px 0px; border-radius: 12px; border: solid 1px #deb887; background-color: #fffaf0;\">\n<div style=\"padding: 8px; min-height: 190px; line-height: 1.5em; display: flex; align-items: center;vertical-align: middle; margin: 20px; background-color: #FFF; border-radius: 10px;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/mamaco.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"141\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-20370\" style=\"display: block; width: 200px; height: auto; float: left; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0; margin-bottom: 0;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/mamaco.jpg 752w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/mamaco-200x141.jpg 200w, https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/hp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/mamaco-500x353.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"display: block; vertical-align: middle; margin: 0;\"><strong>Supervised by: mamaco<\/strong><br \/>\u2014 Former kindergarten teacher and childcare worker. Mother of one. While in college, she developed an interest in early childhood education and studied developmental psychology for infants and toddlers as well as inclusive education. She currently shares tips on how to make parenting easier through social media and other platforms while raising her child.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"cb\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>[Survey on \u201cOutings with Children\u201d]<\/strong><br \/>Survey Period: June 8\u201311, Reiwa 8 <br \/>Respondents: 326 men and women with preschool-aged children (Men: 135, Women: 190, Did not specify: 1)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u3000While going out with children is fun, there are also plenty of times when things don\u2019t go as planned\u2014such as when they get fussy during the trip or when there are long waits at restaurants.\u3000In this article, based on a survey of parents with preschool-aged children, we\u2019ll share practical tips that have actually been helpful, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":20321,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[77],"tags":[102],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20395"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20395"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20395\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20321"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20395"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20395"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/team-kaji-ikuji.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20395"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}