New Parents and the Holidays: Your Questions Answered
The holidays are supposed to be a joyful time... but if you’re a new parent, they can also feel overwhelming, exhausting, and full of questions. Between caring for your newborn, navigating family expectations, and all the holiday buzz, it’s normal to wonder how to make it all work.
Let’s take a deep breath and walk through some of the most common questions new parents have around the holidays with simple, realistic answers to help you enjoy this special season.
1. Managing Holiday Visitors with a Newborn
It’s exciting to share your baby with family and friends, but it’s also important to keep your little one safe, especially during cold and flu season.
- Don’t be afraid to set boundaries. It’s okay to ask visitors to wash their hands, keep visits short, or stay home if they’re feeling sick. It's also ok to decline hosting or attending any events!
- Consider having visits outside or in a well-ventilated space when possible.
- Remember, you’re the parent: your comfort and baby’s safety come first.
2. Traveling with a Newborn During the Holidays
Traveling with a newborn can be done safely, but planning is key.
- Talk to your pediatrician before traveling, especially if your baby is premature or has health concerns.
- Pack plenty of essentials: diapers, wipes, extra clothes, feeding supplies, and any medications.
- Build in extra time for breaks and feeding.
- Keep your baby bundled but avoid overheating: layers are best.
If the trip feels overwhelming, it’s okay to skip it this year and plan for next holiday instead.
3. Handling Feeding and Sleep Disruptions
The holidays bring changes in routine, and your baby might feel that too.
- Try to stick to your baby’s feeding schedule as much as possible, but be flexible: it’s okay if things aren’t perfect.
- Create a quiet, calm space for naps during visits or travel, like a dim room or a familiar blanket.
- Don’t stress if your baby wakes more or feeds more. This is normal during growth spurts and changes in environment.
4. Dressing Your Baby for Holiday Events
You want your baby to look cute and be comfortable.
- Dress your baby in layers so you can adjust if they get too warm or cold.
- Avoid scratchy or tight holiday outfits: comfort is key!
- If it’s cold outside, use hats, mittens, and warm but breathable fabrics.
5. Finding Time for Self-Care Amid Holiday Hecticness
Your well-being matters now more than ever.
- Be realistic about what you can do. Even 5 minutes of deep breathing or a warm shower counts as self-care.
- Ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. You don’t have to do it all alone.
- It’s okay to say no to events or skip traditions this year if you need rest.
6. Gifts and Holiday Traditions with a Newborn
Starting traditions and gift-giving can feel special and overwhelming.
- Simple gifts for your baby like soft books, clothes, or keepsakes work well.
- Gifts that support you, like meal deliveries, house cleaning, or nursing supplies, can be a huge help.
- Don’t feel pressured to start big traditions this year. Small moments count too.
7. Managing Expectations and Holiday Stress
Holidays won’t always be perfect, and that’s okay.
- Give yourself grace. You’re adjusting to a huge life change.
- Remember that feeling tired, emotional, or “off” is normal.
- Talk about your feelings with your partner or a trusted friend.
- Prioritize your mental health by setting limits and seeking support if you need it.
8. Keeping Your Newborn Safe Around Holiday Decorations and Foods
Holiday decorations and festivities come with safety questions.
- Keep candles, string lights, and breakable ornaments out of baby’s reach.
- Watch out for choking hazards like small decorations or tinsel.
- Be cautious with scented candles or strong foods around baby: some scents can be irritating.
- Keep pets supervised around your newborn, especially during busy gatherings.
You’ve Got This
The holidays with a newborn might not look like the ones you imagined, but they can still be full of love and joy. Take things one day at a time, trust your instincts, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help or take a break when you need it.
Wishing you a safe, restful, and happy holiday season with your new little one!
