Our 5 Best Tips for Surviving the Holidays With Baby

Ah, the holiday season has arrived—and with it lots of trees, hot coca, parties, late nights and travel. All the things you probably looked forward to pre-children, but kind of dread as a parent. Let’s face it—there’s nothing fun about dragging an exhausted baby between relatives houses, navigating bedtime when you’re staying in a guest room, or managing nap time with lots of family around. Not to mention the shopping, cooking, expectations and endless to-do lists. December can almost seem like too much—even more so when you’re a new mom.

Of course, we can’t just scratch this month off the calendar—nor would we want to! The holidays can be a magical time, particularly when you have a plan in hand before the madness starts. With our tips you’ll be managing this time of year like a pro and even enjoying it.

Be Prepared

If you’re going to be traveling—or spending any amount of time away from home (that includes day or evening events)—preparation is key. Plan ahead and pack accordingly. Bring a change of clothes for baby, a pack-n-play or portable crib if she will be sleeping, a portable high chair if she will be eating, and your Covered Goods® for nursing on the go and in front of family (don’t forget—our four-in-one covers can also double as a lightweight blanket!). If there isn’t a quiet room for baby to rest in, consider wearing her in a carrier—it will provide the security she needs and keep her from being passed around excessively.

Be Realistic

Not many one-year-olds can manage a party that runs through until midnight—and we’re willing to be you can’t either these days! As you head into the holiday season, it’s important to be realistic about what you can and can’t do. Have an honest conversation with relatives —or ask your partner to. If you need to leave a get-together early—or decline an invitation altogether—it’s ok. Your responsibilities have shifted—and it’s important to keep that in mind. As a parent, you need to make sure your baby is getting what she needs (and that you are too!). Anyone with your baby’s best interests in mind will accept your limitations, and enjoy the time you are able to give.

Accept “Advice” Graciously

Over the next month you may receive comments on how to parent—anytime there’s a gathering of family and friends it’s a possibility. You shouldn’t be required to defend your choices as a parent, but this also may not be the best time to engage in a debate about how many hours baby should be sleeping. Prepare yourself for unsolicited advice, and plan on how you’re going to respond to it. Often a simple “thank you!” followed by a change in topic is enough to divert to conversation. By letting any comments roll off your back you’ll keep the peace at family gatherings and reduce your stress level. Remember, you can always decompress with your girlfriends later.

Ask for Help

As women it’s hard to ask for help—and at this time of year so many of are used to doing so much without assistance. But when you’re also managing parenthood, this can be a recipe for stress and exhaustion. If you’re having trouble handling your list, don’t feel bad about hiring a sitter or enlisting family to watch baby while you run errands, cook, or shop. A few hours without the little can translate into a whole lot of productivity.

Take Care of Yourself

If mama isn’t doing well, no one is! This is even more true during the holiday season. Over the next several weeks, take time to relax and regroup. Even if it seems impossible, practicing self-care during one of the busiest times of year is incredibly important for yourself, and your family! Some deep breathing, yoga, or a walk in the crisp outdoors—with or without baby—can make all the difference for your mental health.

We’d love to hear your tips! How do you make this time of year work as a parent? And don’t forget—our new colors, patterns and buttery soft touch fabrics are ready to ship just in time for the holidays. Invest in a new Covered Goods® to get yourself through the next several weeks with baby, or treat a friend who needs one!

---

---

20 Responses

Leave a comment

Name *

Email *

Comment *

---

Also in News