Mardi Gras Parenting Playbook :: Tips for Parading
Mardi Gras parades are the ultimate test of parenting endurance! Bringing children, babies, and toddlers to the parades can be a fun and exciting experience, but it requires some serious planning and preparation. As a seasoned Mardi Gras mom, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to survive (and even thrive) with little ones in tow.
Take my two boys, Jack and Jacob, for example. Jack has been a Mardi Gras fanatic since he was a baby. We’d strap him into his stroller, put some headphones on his tiny head (those drums can be loud, y’all!), and he’d giggle and coo his way through the entire parade. He’d reach out for beads and stuffed animals, and we’d laugh at his antics. Even as a baby, Jack loved the parades.
Jacob, on the other hand, is a bit more…cautious. He prefers to watch the parade from a distance, thank you very much. He’s not a fan of the loud noises or the crowds, and that’s okay. We find a spot on the sidelines, and he watches the parade with wide eyes, taking it all in.
So, what are some tips for bringing your tiny humans to the Mardi Gras parades?
First and foremost, dress them (and yourself) for success. Comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, and a few extra outfits for those inevitable spills and accidents are a must.
Next, plan for snacks and hydration. You know the old saying, “A hungry toddler is a cranky toddler.” Pack plenty of goldfish crackers, fruit, and granola bars to keep those tiny tummies happy.
And don’t even get me started on the importance of ear protection. Those drums and horns can be loud, and we want to protect those delicate ears. Invest in some kid-friendly headphones, and your little ones will thank you.
Finally, be prepared for the unexpected. Mardi Gras parades can be unpredictable, and things don’t always go according to plan. But that’s all part of the fun, right?
Bringing children, babies, and toddlers to Mardi Gras parades requires some planning and preparation, but it’s an experience they’ll never forget.
With a little creativity, flexibility, and patience, you can create lifelong memories with your little ones amidst the colorful chaos of the Mardi Gras parades. Laissez les bons temps rouler, indeed!
