It's almost Christmas which means for most, lots of lovely family time. However it can also mean lots of travel, new faces and trips away, which if you have a little one can be quite unsettling. So how can you navigate the Christmas period and keep distruption to a minimum?
Babies love routine and consistancy so try to keep to your usual routine as much as possible. Keep feed and meal times to the same time if you can & if you have a bed time routine, continue to follow this each night to give your baby familiarity. Bring favourite items from home, such as comforters, blankets & sleeping bags.
However also try not to be too rigid and allow for some flexibilty along the way. Remember Christmas should be a fun time, so try to relax and know you can re-establish your routine when you are home. If baby needs to come into bed with you for a few nights, it does not mean that's it forever!
There's normally a lot going on over the festive period but be mindful of your baby's sleep & feeding cues. It is so much harder to feed or settle a baby who has become over tired or super hungry! If you are bottle feeding you may want to keep feeds to just you and your partner.
Plan ahead. Let your hosts know what you may need i.e. what sleeping arrangements might work best for you, if you need a highchair or a quiet space to feed.
Take care of yourself. Make the most of the extra pair of hands. Catch up on sleep, read a book or just have a bit of time for yourself.
The most important thing is to enjoy yourself & if that means relaxing your routine a little then that's absolutely fine. Having a few days when your baby goes to bed a little later does not mean you will have to start again. The most important thing is finding the right balance for you and your baby, so you can relax and have a great time over the festive period.
Wishing you a fabulous Christmas.
Vicki x
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