Reminders for Having a Baby During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is often described as the most magical time of the year—but for families welcoming a new baby, it can also be one of the busiest and most overwhelming. Between late-night feedings, adjusting to life with a newborn, and managing the demands of the holidays, it’s easy to feel stretched thin.
It’s important to remember that your holiday season doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. It’s okay to create a new version of “perfect” that works for your growing family. Prioritize rest, set boundaries and look for that Holiday magic in different ways than you may have found it before.
Here are some reminders and tips to help you navigate the holidays with a newborn:
1. Adjust Your Expectations
The holidays may not look like they did in years past—and that’s okay. You’re in a new season of life, and it’s important to give yourself permission to focus on what matters most: your family’s well-being. This might mean fewer decorations, simplified meals, or skipping certain traditions this year. Remember, magic isn’t always in the details; it’s in the moments you create.
2. Say No Without Guilt
Newborns come with their own unpredictable schedules, and it’s perfectly acceptable to decline invitations or opt out of gatherings. Prioritize your needs and set boundaries to protect your energy. A simple, “We’d love to, but we’re focusing on time at home with the baby this year,” is all it takes.
3. Simplify Gift Giving
If shopping for gifts feels like too much, consider alternatives. Online shopping, gift cards, or even heartfelt notes can be meaningful options that don’t add unnecessary stress. Your loved ones will understand.
4. Create New Traditions
This is the perfect time to start traditions that work for your new family dynamic. Maybe it’s watching holiday movies while cuddling your baby, or enjoying a quiet breakfast together on Christmas morning. Let go of the pressure to keep every old tradition and embrace this opportunity to create new ones.
5. Ask for Help
One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself this holiday season is accepting help—or even asking for it. Family members and friends often want to support you but may not know how. Whether it’s bringing a meal, running errands, or holding the baby while you rest, let them lighten your load.
6. Focus on Rest
It can be tempting to stay up late wrapping gifts or catching up on holiday movies, but remember that your recovery and rest are priorities. Sleep whenever you can, and don’t feel pressured to do it all.
7. Limit Visitors
While everyone may want to meet your new bundle of joy, it’s okay to set boundaries around visits. Whether it’s requesting shorter visits, asking guests to wait until the New Year or declining all together, find a balance that feels right for your family.
Remember this holiday season with a newborn is a time for you to decide what is right for your family. It may be a time filled with both challenges and joy. And, while the holidays may look different this year, each moment offers an opportunity to create new traditions and lasting memories with your growing family - And you get to decide what that looks like. Or, maybe this is a year that you give yourself a pass. Focus on rest and try again with the holidays next year, that’s okay too!
Welcome Baby Co. is a Calgary-based company. We are happy to support all kinds of families through all kinds of birth and postpartum. Our goal is to prepare you for any scenario that may arise so that you can feel confident and empowered as you enter parenthood.
If you have any questions about Calgary birth doulas, Calgary postpartum doulas, breastfeeding support in Calgary or our Prenatal classes in Calgary, please contact us.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website/blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.