How to Survive the Holidays with Your Baby’s First Holiday Season: Safety, Boundaries, and Sanity

justatiredmama65
Oct 8
3 min read

The holidays with a baby—whether they’re a few weeks old or a few months old—can feel like navigating a minefield…while carrying a tiny human who cries at the slightest hint of disruption. As exciting as it is to celebrate with friends and family, it’s also stressful—especially when you’re worried about people trying to play the classic game of “Pass the Baby.”

Here’s the truth: it’s okay to set boundaries, keep things simple, and prioritize your baby’s safety (and your sanity).

1. Set Your Rules Early

Before the holiday chaos begins, take a few minutes to decide your rules. Who can hold the baby? Are visitors allowed if they have a sniffle? Are kisses off-limits? Once you know your boundaries, communicate them clearly.

Pro tip: Send a text ahead of time with the “baby ground rules.” It feels less awkward than trying to explain on the spot and gives everyone a heads-up. That way, if you have to gently remind Aunt Karen later, it’s not the first time they’re hearing it.

2. Keep Baby Safe

Babies—even the tiniest newborns—are vulnerable, especially during flu and RSV season. Some key steps to protect them include:

Wash hands or use sanitizer before holding the baby. If you’re hosting, set up sanitizer stations around your home.
No visitors if they’re sick. It’s tough to say, but it’s necessary.
No kissing anywhere on the baby. Even grandma might need a reminder.

Educating loved ones about the risks (flu, RSV, general germs) isn’t being dramatic—it’s being responsible.

3. Reduce Unnecessary Exposure

Carrying your baby in a carrier is a game-changer. Not only does it keep baby snug and happy, but it also drastically reduces requests from strangers or family members to hold your newborn.

Keeping celebrations simple helps too. Don’t overextend yourself trying to do everything. Ask for help—whether that’s someone bringing a dish or helping you find a private spot to feed or breastfeed.

4. Provide Alternatives to Holding Baby

You don’t have to say “no” to everyone. Offer safe, fun ways to interact with your little one:

Peekaboo from a safe distance
Singing a song together
Gentle tickles on the feet

5. Handle Awkward Moments with Grace (and Humor)

Even with planning, awkward situations happen. Here are some “quick saves”:

Polite redirection: “Let’s give him a little space—he’s finally calm and cozy right now.”
Quick explanation: “He’s been fussy today, so we’re keeping stimulation low.”
Humor diffuser: “He’s charging his social battery right now!”

Sometimes it helps to have a designated “no” person if you need backup—someone who can enforce your rules without guilt.

6. Baby Wellness: My Go-Tos

Here are my go-to essentials for baby wellness and care that help me feel prepared and confident during the holidays.

You can check out my full Amazon list here: Amazon Baby Wellness & Care List

7. Give Yourself Grace

The first holiday season with a baby—whether they’re a few weeks or a few months old—is hard. There’s no way around it. You’ll be tired, stressed, and likely covered in spit-up at some point. That’s okay. Prioritize your baby’s safety, communicate your boundaries, and don’t forget to breathe.

Remember: surviving your baby’s first holiday season is an achievement in itself. Keep things simple, protect your little one, and inject a little humor where you can. You’ve got this.