Surviving (and Thriving) During the Holidays with a Little One
The holidays are a magical time—but they can also feel overwhelming when you’re caring for a baby. Between family gatherings, endless to-do lists, and navigating your baby’s unpredictable schedule, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. But here’s the thing: taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one.
This holiday season, let’s focus on thriving rather than just surviving. Here are three self-care tips to help you navigate the festivities with ease while keeping your sanity intact.
1. Embrace “Good Enough”
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of creating the perfect holiday—perfect meals, perfect decorations, perfect memories. But let’s be real: with a little one in the mix, perfection is overrated.
Simplify your plans. Choose low-key traditions that don’t add unnecessary stress. Think matching pajamas and a cozy movie night instead of elaborate outings.
Delegate whenever possible. Whether it’s asking a partner to wrap gifts or letting a family member host dinner, don’t hesitate to share the load.
Prioritize what matters most to you, and let go of the rest. Your energy is precious, and your baby won’t notice if the centerpiece isn’t Instagram-worthy.
2. Set Boundaries Like a Pro
Family and friends love to celebrate babies, but navigating everyone’s expectations can feel overwhelming. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s essential for preserving your energy.
Be honest about what you can manage. If back-to-back gatherings feel like too much, it’s okay to say no.
Create a schedule that works for you. Build in quiet moments for naps (for the baby and you!) and stick to a routine as much as possible.
Protect your peace. If unsolicited parenting advice or holiday chaos feels draining, take a breather. Go for a walk, step into another room, or take a quiet feeding break.
3. Build in Time for Yourself
You might feel like there’s no time for self-care during the holidays, but even small moments can make a big difference. Taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Here are a few simple ways to recharge:
Savor a warm drink while your baby naps—bonus points if it’s festive hot cocoa.
Take a long shower or bath to reset, even if it’s just 10 minutes.
Tap into your village. Let someone else hold the baby for a while, and give yourself permission to rest, read a book, or simply breathe.
Remember, You’ve Got This
The holidays with a little one might look different than before, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less meaningful. By letting go of perfection, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, you can create a holiday season that feels just right for your growing family.
Here’s to a season filled with joy, connection, and just the right amount of sparkle. 💛
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
This blog was written by Alix, a dedicated doula in Montreal, Canada, and the founder of TENDER.LY. She provides expert pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and infant feeding support to help families feel confident and cared for. Whether you're preparing for birth, navigating the fourth trimester, or looking for feeding guidance, Alix offers compassionate, personalized support.