Tits the season! 10 Easy Tips to Help You Survive the Holiday Season Newly Postpartum

Ah, the holiday season: a time for sun, family, and... the chaos of being a brand-new parent. While everyone else is planning beach outings and barbecues, you might be wondering how to simply get through each day. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these 10 easy tips to help you cruise through the holidays postpartum like the super mama you are!

1. Set Boundaries and remember no is not a dirty word!

If you’re used to being the go-to for all family gatherings, it’s time to hit the pause button. This holiday season, practice saying “no” like it’s your new favourite word. “No, I can’t host the Christmas BBQ this year” “No, I won’t be dressing my baby as a reindeer for Instagram.” Boundaries are your best friend, so use them generously.

2. Baby Wear Whenever You Want

Whether it’s to just to keep your little one close or to avoid the game of “passing the baby” baby-wearing is a lifesaver. It’s not only good for baby to be close to you, but will help put your  own nervous system at ease! Baby wearing has so many positive benefits - Plus, no one can annoy you too much if you’ve got a baby strapped to your chest. It's a holiday win-win!

3. Take Breaks and Timeout from the Action

Picture this: Aunt Susan is asking for the third time, “Is the baby sleeping through the night yet?” (Spoiler: they aren’t). Or Uncle Greg is dishing out some ‘back in my day’ advice that nobody asked for. This is your cue for a strategic retreat. Excuse yourself for a “quick feed,” and suddenly you have a breather to catch your breath - don’t forget to take snacks. It is super common to have moments of overwhelm and overstimulation - especially when you’re around people, so take the alone time with bubs whenever you need!

Get your partner/support person on board with this too, make up a little signal or code word for when you’ve just had enough of everyones shenanigans.

4. Don’t be afraid to Ask for Help 

Supermum is a myth. Real supermums ask for help. If someone offers to do anything that makes your life easier - say yes! Someone wants to make you a plate of food (or maybe even a foot rub), yes please!  If they ask to hold the baby while you eat, say yes (as long as you’re comfortable). Take the help where you can get it. You really don’t have to do this all yourself. It takes a village to raise a mama too!

5. Don’t Overcommit to Anything

You’ve been invited to a BBQ, a beach party, and a family brunch... all in one day? LOL. Politely decline. Your sole commitment is to your little family bubble. Skip the FOMO and remember that this year, it’s okay to be that person who RSVPs “maybe” to everything.

6. Have Realistic Expectations

It’s tempting to imagine a perfect holiday season with a smiling baby and picture-perfect moments. But a bit of a reality check: babies spit up, poop, and cry... a lot and honestly so do us mums! Go into the holidays with zero expectations - other than a nap and a shower (optional) and some self-care time (mandatory). Anything extra is just a bonus. Flexibility and going with the flow are this years holiday mantras.

7. Make Time for Rest

There’s no shame in saying you need a nap instead of a backyard cricket match. And if anyone questions your decision to nap instead of socializing, ask them if they want to do babies 3am wake up for you. No, but seriously, rest is crucial for your recovery - so please make sure you create windows of ways to rest. 

8. Plan Around What Works for You

Depending on how freshly postpartum you are, fit your holiday plans around you and your whānau. Don’t try to fit your baby into the holiday schedule. Plan shorter outings or choose nearby events. And remember, it’s perfectly okay to show up late, leave early (or not show up at all). 

9. Drink Water and Stay Hydrated

Summertime heat, endless breastfeeding (or chasing a toddler), sleep deprivation and constant exhaustion can leave you feeling like a dried-out Christmas tree. Keep a water bottle within arm’s reach at all times. Limit the Christmas bevvys this year,  Staying hydrated is key to feeling semi-human during the festive chaos.

10. Do What Works for You and Your Family

Finally, remember that every family is different. Don’t let anyone pressure you into traditions or events that don’t suit you this year. If all you want to do is binge-watch Netflix in air-conditioned comfort, go for it! The goal is to survive and enjoy the season, however that looks for you. 

So, here’s to navigating the sunny, sandy holidays postpartum! May your sunscreen be strong, you and your baby sleep somewhat regularly, and your ability to say “no thanks” grow even stronger.

Happy (summertime) holidays, new mama!