10 Ways to Navigate the Holidays as a New Parent

How to level up your boundaries and keep the holidays merry and bright

Mother holding a baby outside looking at christmas lights

It’s beginning to look a lot like the festive season! As a new parent, if this fills you with more dread than joy - I got you!

As a gift to you, I’m here to help you make some great memories and honour your boundaries.

You may be asking: “Do I really need to think about this? I’m pretty sure people will get that we have a baby, and be understanding.”

And maybe they will…

Instead of relying on “maybe”, why not build your boundary tool box? This way, you can honour your changing needs and take care of your mental health while you celebrate.

10 ways to navigate the holidays as a new parent:

1. Communicate your needs in advance

Reach out to loved ones ahead of gatherings with what you need. For instance, ask if there’s a private space for feedings and changes (or to take a breather) or mention that you and your partner might be eating dinner in shifts to tend to the baby.

2. Create new traditions

It’s baby’s first Christmas! Creating new traditions is a beautiful way to celebrate this new chapter. Focus on small, doable activities that bring joy to you and your little family. It doesn’t need to be fancy! Ordering your fave food and watching Christmas movies in pj’s can be a new cozy tradition!

3. Visit for shorter amounts of time

Your energy levels (Hello? Lack of sleep!) and routines are so important to honour. Adjusting arrivals and visit lengths can be a game-changer this time of year. Take cues from your little one on feedings and naps, and know that it’s ok to go home earlier.

4. Say "no" to invites as needed

Saying “No” to invites doesn’t make you The Grinch! It will help save your social battery, and allow you to focus on what you and your family need during this new, and vulnerable time. Give yourself permission to take a step back when needed.

5. Block out time to rest between events

Make that space in your calendar to recharge! I’m a big fan of this for everyone, but especially recommend it for families with a newborn.

6. Stick to routines that work for your family

Uncle Bob doesn’t know what works best for your family - you do (even if you’re still figuring it out). Keep to routines that’ll help prevent you from dealing with an overstimulated baby for hours.

7. Lower expectations

I know, easier said than done. But acknowledging that things may be a bit clunky this year as you figure things out, will help you be present instead of stressing about a “picture-perfect” holiday.

8. Keep within a manageable budget

Your family has grown and raising little humans isn’t cheap! It’s absolutely ok to edit expenses this year to lower stress and focus on gathering with loved ones. Thrifting, swaps, and gifting ”quality time” together are all beautiful ways to celebrate without breaking the bank.

9. Spend time with people that uplift you

This is a big (and sometimes challenging) one. Who has been the most supportive in this new chapter? Who can you laugh and cry with? These are the people to surround yourself with.

10. Ask for help

It’s a lot growing and raising a tiny human, recovering from pregnancy and birth - and all this on very little sleep! You don’t have to do it all: lean on your people (and doula!) to help lessen the load. Trust me, your self-care is the best gift you can give yourself.

What stood out the most to you? Anything you’re excited to try this year? Drop your comments below and be sure to share this with other new parents!