Navigating the holidays with a baby

This is the year for prioritizing rest, health and your mental load, while still enjoying small, meaningful moments. See my Doula approved newborn holiday tips for this year!

A Gentler Holiday Season

The first holidays with a baby often look very different from years past, and that is completely normal. New parents are recovering physically and emotionally while also learning their baby’s cues, so simplifying plans and lowering expectations can prevent exhaustion and disappointment. Although it can feel tempting when you are on parental leave to do it all and have the perfect holiday, framing this year as a “quiet, cozy season” rather than “back to normal” might be exactly what you need.

This is your year to opt out of what just doesn't fit for your family. Babies tend to do better when feeding and sleep routines stay as predictable as possible, even during special events. Building your plans around nap times and feeding time is definitely allowed. At home, planning intentional quiet time each day and scaling back on hosting, cooking, and gifting preserves energy for healing and bonding.

Health is your top priority

Winter holidays often mean crowded indoor spaces and lots of eager hands wanting to hold the baby, which can increase exposure to germs.

Pediatric providers commonly suggest limiting close contact, avoiding large crowded events when possible, and asking close relatives to be up to date on vaccines, especially for very young or medically fragile babies. Wearing baby in a carrier and having a simple “no kissing hands or face” rule are practical ways to reduce contact without needing a long explanation.

I can't stress this enough - You don't have to pass your baby around to everyone who wants to hold them unless you want to!

Sending an email ahead of time or talking to your hosts before events can help reduce pressure in the moment.

Travel

If you do decide to travel by car, be aware that it is going to take much longer than you think. You will need to take frequent breaks to avoid extended time in the car seat, and to feed and soothe baby. Dressing baby in layers and making sure they are not wearing a snowsuit in the car is important.

Consider alternative travel, the train is a very relaxing way to travel, and babies often sleep through the ride.

Packing a small “holiday survival” bag (diapers, change of clothes for parents and baby, favorite blanket, any medications), and bringing a portable sleep space that mimics home can also make travel days smoother.​

Time for new traditions?

The first holiday season is an opportunity to create small, low-effort rituals that work in this new stage—like opening one gift in pajamas, taking a quick family photo by the tree or menorah, or sharing a special book. You are the parent, and you get to choose what traditions matter to your family.

Whatever you decide, remember, it's absolutely okay to say no to what doesn't work for you, and yes to what will bring you joy!