TIPS FOR HANDLING BABIES' FIRST CHRISTMAS WITH FAMILY
Christmas is undoubtedly a magical time of year, but as a new parent, the season can feel a little overwhelming - especially when everyone is eager to meet your baby.
Whether you’re hosting at home or visiting family, balancing the festivities with your baby’s needs - and your own - can be a tricky juggling act.
Here are some tips to help you set boundaries, agree on a plan with your partner, and keep your festive period more merry and a bit less stressful.
SET BOUNDARIES AND AGREE THEM AS A TEAM
Before the Christmas chaos begins, take a moment to sit down with your partner and discuss what feels manageable for you both. Some things to consider:
* Who you’re comfortable seeing and when:
Short, planned visits may feel less overwhelming than having people popping round unannounced.
* What rules you’d like to set:
A “no kissing the baby” policy and asking everyone to wash their hands before holding them are perfectly reasonable, especially during winter when colds and flu are doing the rounds.
* How to manage feeding, naps, and overstimulation:
Babies thrive on routine, so it’s important to think about how you’ll balance their needs with the festive hustle and bustle.
Once you’ve agreed on your boundaries, stick to them. Being united as a team will make it much easier to enforce them, and you’ll feel more confident doing so, or leaving your partner to tackle any overbearing in-laws (we all have them...)
COMMUNICATE CLEARLY AND KINDLY
Your family and friends will be so excited to meet your little one, but they may not instinctively understand or remember your preferences. That’s where clear, kind communication comes in.
* Lead with love:
For example, “We’re so excited for you to meet baby, but we’d really appreciate it if everyone could wash their hands before having a cuddle.”
* Be upfront about limits:
If you need to step away for a feed or to settle your baby for a nap, don’t feel the need to over-explain or apologise. A simple, “We’re just going to take baby upstairs for a bit of quiet time,” sets the tone and makes your boundaries clear.
REMEMBER IT'S YOUR BABY, AND YOUR RULES
Every family has its traditions, and while Christmas is a wonderful time to create memories, it’s also okay to protect your baby’s routine and your own peace of mind. Whether it’s declining a late-night party or asking people to respect your choices around feeding, sleep, or cuddles, remember that you know your baby best.
If anyone struggles to accept your boundaries, try to stay calm and firm.
PLAN FOR DOWNTIME
Christmas can be overwhelming for everyone, so don’t be afraid to schedule some quiet moments amidst the festivities. This might mean skipping a big gathering or sneaking away for a peaceful walk with the pram.
Letting your baby have time to decompress, and giving yourself a breather too, is just as important as spending time with loved ones.
FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS MOST
The magic of your baby’s first Christmas isn’t in ticking off every tradition or keeping everyone else happy. It’s in the little moments: the soft glow of the Christmas tree as you take in the wonder of your little one and the smell of their head, or the first time they spot the Christmas lights and are mesmerised by their twinkles.
By setting boundaries and asking for support, you’re giving yourself and your baby the best chance to enjoy this special season. And at the end of the day, that’s what truly matters.
Wishing you and your family a peaceful and joyful first Christmas together!
Jen & Etta xx