For parents, introducing their baby to the great outdoors can be a truly fulfilling experience but scary in the same time. With all of the sights, sounds, and endless opportunities for discovery, it’s hard not to look forward to those moments.

Most parents have an instinctual desire to take the necessary precautions to safeguard their baby’s wellbeing, and this is something that Johnson’s Baby understands better than anyone else. To help you navigate those first few moments of uncertainty, Johnson’s Baby experts have put together a simple guide based on some of the most common worries that come along with this experience.

When is the right age?

That’s long been a cause for debate among parents. In some cultures moms and babies are recommended to stay inside for the first few weeks or even months. But the truth is there’s no medical reason not to take a healthy baby out of the house. Just keep in mind that your baby’s immune system isn’t as good as yours yet, so it’s better to avoid crowds during the first few weeks, such as shopping malls, concerts or public transportation. Go for a morning walk in the park instead. Fresh air and a change of pace can be good for people of any age, including newborn babies.

And the right time?

One of the first questions parents ask themselves is, “When is the right time to take my baby outside?” Baby’s skin can be particularly sensitive to the sun’s harmful rays, especially here in the Middle East where the sun can be very strong. Babies, and mainly newborns, should never be in direct contact with sunlight. Avoid taking your baby outside between the hours of 10 am – 3 pm, when the sun is at its hottest. Instead, consider taking a stroll during the early hours of the morning, before the sun has reached its highest point in the sky. Opting for a late afternoon time frame works well too.

What about the weather?

For the hot days in Dubai, reach for lightweight clothing options like long pants and long-sleeved shirts that help promote air circulation while still protecting your baby from the sun. Brimmed hats and sunglasses can also help shield your baby from direct exposure to the sun. During colder weather, several thin layers of clothing work best to protect your baby.

Should I let them play in the dirt?

If you’re worried about your babies playing in the dirt, don’t sweat it. In fact, more and more researchers have found that exposure to bacteria, viruses, and microbes can work to strengthen your baby’s immune system. Instead, come prepared for your baby’s muddy experience with a pack of Johnson’s Baby Wipes. Designed to gently and effectively remove dirt (and germs) from the surface of your baby’s hands and face, these alcohol-free, clinically tested wipes are gentle enough to use on even the most delicate skin.

What about all those pesky critters?

Protecting your baby from bug bites and bee stings is certainly a concern all parents share. Luckily, there are insect repellents (look for ones labeled “for the whole family”) which are safe to use on babies over two months old. Tip: To ensure your baby doesn’t inhale any harmful fumes, spray the repellent directly on his or her clothing. And when dressing your baby, remember that bees and wasps are attracted to bright colors and floral prints so opt for whites, greys, and dark colors.

Can babies get seasonal allergies, like hay fever?

This is one thing you most likely don’t have to worry about if your baby is less than one year old. It’s rare that babies experience seasonal allergies for the simple reason they haven’t been alive long enough. The body needs more exposure to tree pollen, grass, or ragweed before it develops a reaction. But when a child grows older, seasonal allergies can spring up, and your pediatrician can offer guidance on how to treat them.