A New Mom’s Guide to Navigating the Holidays
The holiday season is here, and as a new mom, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions—joy, stress, and everything in between. Whether it’s your first holiday as a parent or you’re juggling new traditions with a little one in tow, the season brings unique challenges and opportunities. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this special time with confidence, compassion, and a focus on what truly matters.
Family Dynamics: Finding Your Groove
Holidays often come with a juggling act—splitting time between families, deciding whose traditions to prioritize, or figuring out where to celebrate. With a new baby in the mix, it’s okay to step back and focus on what works for your family.
It’s perfectly fine to skip the big family trip or say no to events that feel like too much right now.
Communicate openly with family about your capacity, and remember: prioritizing your baby’s needs (and your own!) is a-okay!
Crowds and Germs: Setting Boundaries with Love
Heading to a holiday party or large family gathering with your baby can be nerve-wracking, especially with concerns about germs. It’s okay to set boundaries:
Bring hand sanitizer and kindly ask others to clean their hands before holding your baby.
Feel empowered to skip events or attend only parts of them if it feels safer or more comfortable for you.
Routines vs. Traditions: Finding the Balance
Babies thrive on routines, and it’s hard to imagine disrupting that for a party or family dinner. But with a little flexibility, you can balance both:
Consider creative solutions like bringing a portable crib or tag-teaming with your partner if baby gets cranky the next day.
Remember, breaking the routine occasionally for special moments is okay—and it’s all part of figuring out what works best for your family.
Looking Festive, Feeling Good
Postpartum bodies are incredible, but the pressure to “bounce back” can be overwhelming during the holidays. The clothes you want to wear to the holiday parties might not fit the way you want them to, and that’s okay. Our bodies and our minds are connected. When we feel good in our bodies, it can elevate our mood Instead of stressing over fitting into pre-baby clothes:
Treat yourself to something new that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Remember, self-kindness is the best gift you can give yourself. When you feel good, it shines through in everything you do.
The holidays as a new mom are a mix of magic and adjustment. This season, focus on creating moments that feel meaningful to *you*—whether that’s starting a new tradition, embracing quiet time with your baby, or simply saying “no” to the things that feel like too much. Whatever you choose, remember that your well-being matters just as much as the memories you’re creating. Here’s to a season filled with love, joy, and moments that truly matter for you and your family. ❤️
This post was written by wellbe’s registered social worker Torey Belzberg. If you or your family are in need of support, you can book an in-person or virtual visit with our social workers here.