What are the holidays like with a newborn? Imagine Grandma A inviting you over for an entire week of Thanksgiving—no need to pack, as she’s set up a full nursery and stocked up on turkey-themed outfits. Meanwhile, Grandpa B insists on joining for baby’s first Santa photos and hosting a sleepover for Christmas Eve, followed by a trip to Grandpa A’s for lunch. And if you’re celebrating Hanukkah? That could mean eight days of family festivities!
Does this sound familiar? Such scenarios can be overwhelming for new parents who just want some quiet time together. If you’re hesitant about sharing baby’s first holiday milestones with everyone, here’s some advice from parenting expert, Sarah Lee, founder of Family Harmony Coaching: it’s all about planning.
Create a Strategy
First, you and your partner need to align your holiday expectations. Take some time to sit down and discuss how you envision the holidays with your little one. “Be open and honest,” advises Sarah. It’s vital to outline what matters most to both of you. Do you want to start new traditions? How much time do you want alone, and how much with family? Would hosting at your place be an option? Address these questions early on to avoid last-minute stress.
Communicate Your Plans
Once you’ve established a game plan, it’s time to share it. “Let your family know your intentions early,” Sarah suggests. You might say, “We have a new baby, we’re tired, and I’m concerned about the long drive. How can we make this work?” Explain that while you value family time, changes are necessary with a newborn in tow. Don’t forget to include your siblings’ families in the conversation too. If your relatives cling to outdated traditions, stand firm. “If they push back, just say no,” says a new mom, Lisa, on our community forums, who manages family visits during the holidays.
Let Go of Guilt
Understand that some family members may feel disappointed when you start reshaping holiday traditions. However, it’s crucial to prioritize your new family unit. “This is your new family,” Sarah stresses. Set aside moments for just you, your partner, and baby. Many new parents feel guilty about this, but trying to please everyone can rob you of precious time as a family.
For more tips on parenting during special occasions, check out our other blog post here. For those considering starting a family, reputable resources like Healthline offer valuable information about pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in at-home options, visit Make a Mom, the leading provider of at-home insemination kits.
In summary, managing your first holiday with a baby involves clear communication and setting boundaries with family. Take the time to establish your priorities and don’t hesitate to embrace your new family dynamics.
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