Photo by D-Keine via Canva
The holidays with a baby are equal parts magic and chaos. One moment you’re soaking in the twinkle lights and baby giggles, the next you’re juggling naps, family visits, and a diaper blowout in the middle of Christmas dinner. It’s a season full of joy — but also full of logistics. Here’s how we’re making it work this year, and what’s helping us survive with our little one.
Asking for Help (and Taking Breaks)
We’ve learned quickly that it’s okay to ask for help. Grandparents, relatives, or friends are often thrilled to spend time with the baby, and it gives us a chance to breathe.
But since we don’t have family nearby, we’ve decided to send our baby to daycare for two days each week during the holidays. At first, it felt a little selfish — but honestly, it’s been a lifesaver. Those hours give us time to catch up on chores (our lawn was so tall I joked I might lose sight of my son in it!) and, more importantly, reconnect as a couple. Even something as simple as grabbing a coffee together or sneaking off to a movie feels like a holiday treat.
Parenting can feel all-consuming, so carving out couple time is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves.
Keeping Holidays Simple
We’re not planning anything big this year — no camping trips or long drives. Instead, we’re focusing on day trips: a walk on the beach, a short hike, or even just shopping together.
Our baby loves being outside, and it’s a win-win. He gets fresh air and space to crawl or stand in the park, and we don’t have to stress about entertaining him every minute of the day. Sometimes the simplest outings are the happiest ones.
We’ve also learned to manage expectations. The holidays don’t have to be perfect — they just have to feel good for us. Saying “no” to too many events has been freeing, and it means we can actually enjoy the traditions we do keep.
Baby’s First Holiday Memories
Even though our baby won’t remember this year, we will. We’ve started small traditions: picking out his first ornament, taking a family photo under the tree, and dressing him in a festive outfit.
It’s amazing how holidays feel different now that we’re experiencing them through his eyes. The sparkle of lights, the crinkle of wrapping paper — it’s all new to him, and that makes it magical for us too.
Surviving Car Rides
Traveling with a baby means being creative. We rotate toys and books in the car so he doesn’t get bored. One of us often sits in the back to play with him or feed him — it’s easier since he’s already strapped in, and it saves us time later.
We’ve learned that car rides can double as feeding breaks, which makes outings smoother. It’s not always perfect, but these little hacks make family trips less stressful and more enjoyable.
Holiday Self-Care for Parents
One thing we’ve promised ourselves this year is to take care of us, too. That might mean enjoying a hot chocolate after bedtime, taking turns for solo downtime, or sneaking in a nap when the baby naps.
It’s easy to forget that parents need rest and joy just as much as kids do. The holidays are more fun when we’re not running on empty.
Closing Thought
The holidays with a baby aren’t about doing it all — they’re about doing what works for your family. Whether it’s asking for help, carving out couple time, or keeping things simple, the season can still feel joyful and memorable.
And if all else fails, remember: babies don’t care if the wrapping paper is crooked — they just want to play with the box.
Photo by Helena Lopes via Canva
