It’s the most wonderful time of the year! This year, it’s even more wonderful now that you’ve been given the sweetest, most perfect little gift. And that means it’s time to make new traditions! Read on for our favorite ways to celebrate baby’s first Christmas, and for some practical tips too. 

Delight baby’s senses. 

One of the sweetest things about baby’s first Christmas is watching him experience the holidays for the first time through his senses. Have him touch a clipping from the Christmas tree, place him within view of lights and sparkly decorations, and jingle bells and listen to holiday music (babies love music!). Baby will be in awe at the newness of it all, and you’ll love watching watching him wonder. Just be sure to baby-proof your decorating and keep lights and ornaments out of reach! 

Make a “Baby’s First Christmas” ornament. 

Consider making a keepsake ornament as a memento of baby’s first Christmas. Personalize it with baby’s footprint or handprint, glue on baby’s favorite materials and Christmas memorabilia, or frame a sweet picture of your little elf. If you’re not crafty, that’s okay; take your family shopping for an ornament that reflects one of your family’s interests or memorializes an important family event. 

Capture a holiday photo.

In order to keep your memories of baby’s first Christmas fresh, take as many pictures as possible, whether you want to use them for Christmas cards or for the (Insta)gram. For a fun holiday photo, set baby in front of the Christmas tree, surround her with a strand of twinkling light, let her play with something holiday related—like a shiny ornament or a Santa hat—then snap pictures while she explores. If she’s too tiny to play, put her in front of a bouquet of poinsettias or lay her down on fun holiday gift wrap.

Take advantage of your house full of guests. 

If you’re having guests over for the holidays, ask a trusted relative to watch baby for a bit while you get out of the house for last-minute shopping or so you can take a quick nap. 

Snap Photos with Santa.

Plan a visit with Santa at a time when baby is well-fed and rested. Make sure you’re the one who hands baby off to Santa, so she’s more comfortable. Chances are she’ll be a bit scared of jolly Saint Nick, so be prepared to make lots of silly faces as the photographer snaps the photo. At worst, you’ll get a grumpy face that you can laugh at for years to come.

Start a tradition.

Start a totally new tradition this year for baby’s first Christmas. Baby won’t know what’s going on or be able to participate, but it doesn’t hurt to establish your tradition early! Some ideas to consider: buy baby matching PJs, volunteer at a soup kitchen, donate used toys to charity, tour the neighborhood Christmas lights with friends, decorate a stocking, etc. 

 

 

Keep Things Simple.

Things will not go as planned…when you’re aware of your expectations and lower them just a teeny bit, you’ll have a more enjoyable holiday season.

Stay healthy.

Remember, baby’s inexperienced immune system is especially susceptible to germs. Everyone will want to hold your baby because, obviously, your baby is super cute. But if you’re wary of baby getting sick, don’t be afraid to ask friends and family to wash their hands before touching/holding your little one. If your baby is very new and your family/friend’s Christmas gathering is quite large, consider staying home. They’ll understand.

Keep baby’s routine.

Baby’s first Christmas is an exciting time. But despite the hustle and bustle, sticking to baby’s feeding and sleeping times will go a long way towards ensuring you’ll have a merry munchkin on your hands. You don’t want a grinch in every holiday photo! Remind relatives that scheduling some downtime is a necessity for you. Some circumstances may be unavoidable, but it’s good to be prepared during the busy holiday season!

Prioritize Breastfeeding.

Believe it or not, breastfeeding during the holidays is an important thing to consider when planning for baby’s first Christmas. Holidays are hectic for anyone, but especially so for new mamas who are gift-shopping, cooking, party planning, and taking care of baby. When your routine is thrown off by the holiday activities and you’re feeling extra stressed, be super intentional about relaxing and keeping your normal routine; you don’t want your milk supply to be impacted by your mood! Nurse as you normally would during the holidays whether or not it’s time to cook the ham or wrap presents…you’ll be glad you did!

Celebrating Christmas is a big milestone for baby, and for you. Preparing for this first Christmas may be a bit of a hassle, but at the end of the day it will be a magical experience. So cherish it, mama, and enjoy making new traditions and memories with your best gift.