The holiday season is a magical time, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for new parents. If you’re celebrating your first holidays with a newborn, you might be wondering how to balance family traditions, social obligations, and your baby’s needs. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with these newborn holiday tips to help you navigate the festive season with ease.
Simplify Your Celebrations
One of the most important newborn holiday tips is to keep things simple. You don’t need to attend every party or participate in every tradition. Choose the events and activities that matter most to you and your partner.
Remember, your baby won’t remember this holiday season, so focus on creating a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for your family. A quiet night at home with the twinkling holiday lights surrounding you and a warm cup of cocoa might be just the thing you need to relax and enjoy this time together.
Set Realistic Expectations
Your holiday season with a newborn will look different from previous years, and that’s okay. Be realistic about what you can accomplish and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. It’s perfectly fine to scale back on decorations, gift-giving, or hosting duties. Your loved ones will understand that you’re adjusting to life with a new baby.
Establish Boundaries
One of the crucial newborn holiday tips is to set clear boundaries with family and friends. If you’re not comfortable with large gatherings or having visitors hold your baby, communicate your concerns politely but firmly. Your baby’s health and your comfort should be the top priorities. RSV season is nothing to mess around with (and there is nothing worse than being sick yourself when you still have to take care of an infant)
Plan Around Your Baby’s Schedule
When making holiday plans, consider your newborn’s feeding and sleeping schedule. Try to time outings and gatherings around when your baby is typically most content. If you’re hosting, don’t hesitate to plan events during your baby’s typical “happy hours.” Also… don’t be afraid to step away in the middle of a party to tend to your baby. Sometimes a few minutes in a quiet back room does the trick, and other times you might need to call it an early night and head home for everyones mental health and well being.
Embrace New Traditions
This is a perfect opportunity to start new holiday traditions that work for your growing family. Maybe it’s a cozy movie night at home or a special ornament to commemorate your baby’s first Christmas. These newborn holiday tips can help you create lasting memories without adding stress.
Accept Help
If friends and family offer to help, take them up on it! Whether it’s bringing a dish to a gathering, watching the baby while you wrap gifts, or helping with holiday cleaning, accepting assistance can significantly reduce your stress levels when you’re celebrating the holidays with a newborn.
Take Care of Yourself
In the midst of holiday preparations and newborn care, don’t forget about self-care. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and taking moments for yourself. A relaxed parent makes for a happier baby.
Be Prepared for Outings
If you do venture out for holiday events with a newborn, be prepared. Pack extra diapers, wipes, changes of clothes, and feeding supplies. Having everything you need will help you feel more confident and relaxed when you’re away from home.
Use Online Shopping
Take advantage of online shopping to avoid the crowds and stress of holiday shopping with a newborn. Many retailers offer gift wrapping services, making your life even easier.
Capture the Holidays with a Newborn
Even if you’re scaling back on celebrations, don’t forget to capture some special moments of your baby’s first holiday season. A few simple photos or a short video can become treasured keepsakes. (Want to learn how to photography your new baby using just your iphone? Snag a copy of our DIY course for new parents!)
Remember, the most important newborn holiday tip is to enjoy this special time with your little one. The holidays are about love, family, and togetherness – and you’re creating beautiful memories, even if they look a little different this year.
By following these newborn holiday tips, you can navigate the festive season with less stress and more joy. Embrace the changes, focus on what truly matters, and cherish these precious moments with your new addition. Happy holidays!
p.s. thinking about holiday newborn photos? There are sooooo many cute holiday props out there! Check Etsy for some adorable holiday photoshoot ideas
Are You Expecting a Holiday Baby?
If you’re anticipating the arrival of your little one during the holiday season, now is the perfect time to think about capturing those precious early moments. Why not incorporate the magic of the season into your newborn’s first photoshoot?
Imagine your tiny bundle wrapped in cozy holiday-themed blankets, or nestled in a basket under twinkling lights. These images will become treasured keepsakes that perfectly blend the joy of your new arrival with the warmth of the holiday season.
Don’t wait to book your holiday newborn session! As we get closer to the holidays and your due date, schedules fill up quickly. By booking now, you’ll secure your spot and have one less thing to worry about as you prepare for your baby’s arrival. (Learn more about our newborn session options here)
At Glean & Co, we specialize in creating beautiful, timeless newborn portraits that capture the essence of your baby and the spirit of the season. Our experienced photographers know how to work with newborns safely and comfortably, ensuring a stress-free experience for both you and your little one.
Contact us today to reserve your holiday newborn session and create lasting memories of your baby’s first days. Let’s make this holiday season truly unforgettable!
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