Navigating your first holiday season with a new bundle of joy can feel equal parts exciting and terrifying. There are endless new baby gifts, boundaries to set, and germs to (hopefully) avoid.
I get it! Personally, both of my kids are holiday babies. My daughter was born at the end of November, and my son at the end of December. Oh, did I mention that it was also peak-Covid?
Navigating the holidays with two – very- young babies felt extremely overwhelming to me, so I’m sharing some of the helpful tips I learned along the way.
And yes, it’s okay to say “No” to people holding your baby or not letting them get close to your newborn if they’re sick.
Setting boundaries with family can feel really tricky, but take it from me; they’re the only way you’ll keep your sanity, especially during the busy holiday season. But boundaries aren’t the only thing that can help navigate this time.
Keep reading for seven more tips for surviving the holidays with a newborn.
Tips for surviving the holidays with a newborn
Here are some survival tips to help you deck the halls (and keep your sanity) with a little one in tow. Of course, not every suggestion will work for you and your family, so adjust as needed to make your holidays the best – for you – possible.
1. Embrace the “less is more” mantra
Forget elaborate feasts and marathon shopping sprees. Focus on spending quality time with your family, even if it’s just snuggling on the couch in PJs while the baby naps.
Simplify traditions, opt for potluck gatherings, and delegate or skip non-essential tasks. Remember, this isn’t about Pinterest-perfect moments; it’s about making memories.
2. Set boundaries unapologetically
You are not obligated to attend every gathering or say yes to every request. Politely decline invitations that feel overwhelming, and don’t hesitate to leave early if things get hectic.
Also, it’s okay to insist that people wash their hands before holding your baby, and it’s okay to say no if you aren’t ready to pass your baby around the room for others to hold them yet.
Your baby’s schedule and well-being come first.
3. Accept support as you need it
Let family and friends help! Have someone hold the baby while you shower, ask your partner to do the dishes, and accept offers to watch the little one so you can grab a nap or enjoy a quiet conversation.
Remember, it’s not a sign of weakness to not be able to do everything on your own. Ask for the help you need, and accept it when it’s given.
4. Embrace the chaos
Expect the unexpected. Spills will happen, naps will get skipped, and your carefully planned holiday schedule will likely go out the window.
Roll with the punches, laugh at the mishaps, and embrace the cuddles – the holidays are messy, and that’s part of their charm. The fewer expectations you have to make it “picture perfect,” the better.
5. Prioritize sleep and self-care
You can’t pour from an empty cup, so prioritize your own well-being. Sneak in naps when the baby sleeps, delegate tasks, and enjoy those stolen moments of quiet.
Treat yourself to a hot bath, a walk outside, or a solo reading session – whatever helps you recharge.
6. Remember, your baby is the gift
Forget the fancy toys and elaborate outfits. Your presence, your love, and your cuddles are the best gifts you can give your baby this holiday season. Focus on creating memories, not achieving milestones.
A quiet walk in the snow, a sing-along session by the fireplace, or simply reading a book together can be the most magical moments.
7. Let go of expectations
This holiday season will be different. Traditions might need to be adapted, gifts might be simpler, and your energy levels might be at an all-time low.
Embrace the new normal, find joy in the little things, and let go of any expectations you might have for yourself or your baby.
Remember, the holidays are about celebrating love and joy, and that includes cherishing your precious little one and the unique experience of having them in your life.
So, relax, embrace the chaos, and make your first holiday season with your baby one to remember (even if it’s mostly for the sleep-deprived laughs and the epic diaper blowouts).