The holiday season is here, and it’s about to get extra magical! If this is your baby’s first festive season, it’s all about making memories, adjusting to new routines, and soaking up those sweet moments together as a family. But, with the busyness of the holiday season comes road trips, long flights and a whole lot of adjusting to new routines.
From napping to traveling and everything in between, here’s how to make the most of baby’s first holiday season.
How to Establish a Consistent Holiday Napping Routine
We all know that babies thrive on routine (and honestly, so do parents!). During the holiday madness, try to keep baby’s naps and feeds on track as much as possible. Though this is easier said than done, here are some helpful tips for napping on the go:
- Naps don’t always need to happen in a crib. If baby’s usual sleep space isn’t available, portable cribs or travel bassinets are great alternatives.
- Pack breathable sleepwear. Travelling from hotel rooms to a family member’s guest room can expose you to a wide range of external factors that could affect your baby’s sleep including temperature. These Sunday Sleep Bags are easy to pack up and can help create that familiar, cozy environment, no matter where you are.
- Mimic their sleep routine as much as possible. Like we said, timing is hard when you’re away from home! But making a note of nap time, and creating an environment as similar to home as possible (with stuffed animals, sleepwear, songs etc).
- White noise goes a long way. A little white noise (like a white noise machine or even a calming playlist) can drown out any holiday chaos and keep baby in dreamland.
Tips for Traveling with Baby for the First Time
Whether you're heading to grandma’s house or going on a winter vacation, traveling with a baby can feel like a big challenge. But with a little planning, it’s totally doable (and even fun).
First things first: packing. You’ll need all the essentials: diapers, wipes, a portable crib, baby-friendly snacks, and plenty of outfits.
- Extra Layers: Babies are masters at making a mess, so pack a few extra outfits for emergencies. A little extra cozy gear, like a soft bamboo sleep bag or cozy zippered pajamas, can save you when things get messy.
- Baby Carrier or Stroller: These are life savers when navigating airports or crowded places. Plus, they can help keep baby cozy and close while you move around.
Creating Baby's First Holiday Traditions
Speaking of routines, don’t forget about starting your own family holiday traditions! From family photos in matching pajamas to holiday movie nights with a cozy baby blanket, these moments will be ones to cherish forever.
Gift ideas? Baby’s first holiday gift can be something simple yet meaningful – a soft, snuggly item they can cherish as they grow, like a bamboo sleep sack or cozy set of pajamas. After all, the coziest gifts are the best ones!
Don’t Forget to Make Time for Self-Care
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but don’t forget about YOU (the parent!) Prioritize your own rest and recharge when you can. Whether it’s taking a bubble bath, reading a book, or simply enjoying a hot cup of tea, make sure you carve out time to relax.
And remember, no holiday season is perfect. It’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned. What matters most is the love and joy you’re sharing with your family – and that’s what will make this first holiday season one to remember.