Having a newborn is system overload to begin with. Add in the hubub and family dramas of the holidays and you’re going to need a vacation after your vacation!
Here’s some tips for coping.
When it comes to travel, wait until baby’s had shots. Until your baby’s had her two-month shots it’s best to avoid crowded places like airports, train stations and bus terminals, and to stay close to your doctor just in case. Infections in newborns can be serious. And for that matter you could also experience A new baby is a fine excuse to stay home and order carryout food for Christmas. And a few hours’ drive to grandma’s shouldn’t be a problem with a baby more than a month old. Just make sure relatives wash their hands before holding the baby and are careful not to sneeze on him.
Ask for bulkhead seating if you fly. This will give you more space.
Delegate. Having a new baby is perhaps the one time you have an airtight excuse to do as little as possible around the holidays. Let someone else take a turn hosting Christmas, let your partner do the cooking or order pre-prepared foods, guilt-free. If you’re going to someone’s house, bring a store-bought pie, bottle of wine, flowers or something else easy.
Find a quiet corner. Being exposed to a lot of family can overwhelm your baby and distract her, making feeding difficult. If you’re visiting family, scout out an unused bedroom or other quiet space to use to soothe and feed the baby if she gets fussy or overtired.
About that advice. With the holidays comes well-meaning relatives with stories, advice, even criticism. Keep in mind that most of the time someone’s got the best of intentions and the tales and tips they bring say more about them and their children than it does about you. If all else fails, “well, this is what partner and I chose and it seems to be working for us!”
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