Celebrating Christmas with a new baby can be quite overwhelming for any new mama. There are just so many things to prepare, so many people to meet, and so much advice you have no choice but to listen to!
Before meeting your relatives this Christmas, mama, here are some tips to consider for everyone to have a memorable and meaningful time together:
1.) Remember that it’s okay to say “no”
With a new baby in the room, people will have all their eyes and ears on you and your little one. This can come with unexpected touches to your little one’s face and body, and even unexpected kisses! Remember mama – at a time when RSV and hand, foot, and mouth disease are rampant, it’s okay to say no.
It can be difficult to say “no,” considering the number of hearts you’ll break upon them hearing the word. But at the end of the day, mama, it’s better to politely break a few hearts than to deal with a sickness that could have easily been avoided. After all, it’ll be you taking care of your baby if that ever happens.
2.) You are the only one who should set rules and boundaries for your baby
With so many relatives packed with advice for you and your baby, it can become overwhelming and sometimes, downright irritating. Breathe in and breathe out, mama. You will get through the night filtering those unsolicited messages!
At the end of the day, you know what is best for you and your family. You don’t have to listen to everything everyone has to say. Take what works for you, and drown out the rest.
3.) You don’t have to allow everyone to touch your child – let alone carry them
There will be many people wanting to touch and carry your baby, and at a time when health is everyone’s priority, it’s okay to not want them to keep touching or carrying your child.
Start by letting them know how much you value having them in yours and your baby’s lives and that you are not in any way trying to disrespect or upset them. Then, let them know that at a time when there are so many illnesses and diseases affecting babies, you want to put your baby’s health first.
Be polite about it, but be firm. It’s okay, mama. They will eventually understand.
4.) Have your baby dress in appropriate clothing
Dress your little one appropriately during Christmas. Having them wear long-sleeved shirts and pants or leggings can make it easier for you to protect them from illnesses that come from skin-to-skin contact, as you can easily remove it once you get home. It can also protect them from insect bites and mosquito-borne diseases.
5.) Prepare your little one’s diaper bag with everything both of you will be needing
Prepare your diaper bag a day in advance to make sure you don’t forget anything at home! Here are some essentials you should pack for your little one no matter where Christmas takes you:
6.) Take many pictures and enjoy!
Your baby’s “firsts” are always special, and their first Christmas is no different! Take many pictures that you can look back at together for years to come, and enjoy the day with your family!
