TIPS FOR NAVIGATING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS WITH A NEWBORN

The school holidays are fast approaching and it can be a daunting thought for parents of multiple. Here are some tips to try balance things a little and make the time more enjoyable for all parties involved! 

Navigating School Holidays with Kids and a Newborn: Tips for a Stress-Free Time

School holidays are supposed to be a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories, but when you’ve got a newborn in the mix, things can quickly feel overwhelming. Balancing the needs of older children and a newborn can be challenging, especially with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. But don’t worry! With a little planning and flexibility, you can navigate the holidays smoothly and enjoy quality time with your family. Here are some tips for making the school holidays enjoyable and manageable when you have kids and a newborn at home.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

The school holidays are often packed with activities, travel plans, and family gatherings, but with a newborn, you’ll want to adjust your expectations. There’s no need to try to keep up with everyone’s social calendar. It's okay to say no to invitations and take things at a slower pace.

• Take breaks: It’s okay to have a quiet day at home to recharge. Newborns require a lot of attention and care, so don’t feel guilty for taking a step back from the chaos.

• Simplify: Instead of packing your schedule with outings and events, focus on low-energy activities that everyone can enjoy—especially the newborn! Quality time is more important than quantity.

2. Involve Older Kids in Baby Care

Older children, especially if they’re excited about the arrival of a new sibling, may want to help out with the newborn. This can be a wonderful opportunity to bond and make them feel involved. Just be sure to balance their enthusiasm with the reality of newborn care.

• Assign simple tasks: Give your older kids small responsibilities like helping fetch diapers, choosing clothes for the baby, or even gently rocking the crib. These tasks will give them a sense of accomplishment and help them feel included.

• Teach empathy: Encourage them to be gentle and patient with the baby. This can be a great way to teach nurturing skills and to help them understand the needs of their younger sibling.

3. Create a Routine (As Much As Possible)

Holidays are full of excitement, but babies thrive on routine, and the same can be said for older kids. While you don’t have to adhere to the school-year schedule, maintaining some semblance of routine will help your family stay grounded and avoid chaos.

• Flexible routines: Establish a rhythm for meals, naps, and bedtime that works for everyone. This will help you manage your time and ensure your newborn is well-rested, even when things get busy.

• Incorporate fun activities: While maintaining a routine, you can still carve out time for special holiday activities with your older kids, like baking cookies, crafting, or watching holiday movies together.

4. Take Advantage of “Quiet Time”

When you have a newborn and older kids home on holiday break, finding moments of peace can be challenging. But “quiet time” is essential for everyone’s well-being. You’ll need it to rest, and your older kids can benefit from some down time too.

• Scheduled nap time: Encourage your older kids to rest or do quiet activities when the baby is napping. This could be the perfect time to read a book, engage in a solo craft project, or even have some one-on-one time with your older kids while the baby sleeps.

• Screen time limits: If you need a little extra help keeping older kids entertained, you can use this time for screen-based activities (movies, games, or shows), but try to limit it to ensure that it doesn’t take over the entire holiday.

5. Ask for Help When You Need It

One of the best ways to navigate school holidays with a newborn and older kids is by accepting help from friends, family, or a trusted babysitter. You don’t have to do it all alone, and it's perfectly fine to lean on others when needed.

• Family visits: If you have family nearby, invite them over for a visit, or ask them to help with meal prep or entertaining the older kids while you take a nap or focus on the newborn.

• Tag-team parenting: If you have a partner, take turns managing the kids. One of you can focus on the baby while the other handles the older kids, and then switch. This helps prevent burnout and ensures that both of you get breaks.

7. Stay Flexible with Travel Plans

If you were planning to travel during the holidays, it’s important to be flexible when you have a newborn. Long car rides or flights can be tricky with a young baby, and the last thing you want is to stress out over travel plans.

• Plan short trips: If you must travel, try to keep trips short or break them up with stops. Babies tend to be more comfortable with frequent feedings and diaper changes, so allow extra time for breaks if you’re driving.

• Take it easy: If you have extended family gatherings, don’t over-schedule. Give yourself permission to take breaks, leave early if needed, and ensure that your newborn stays on their nap and feeding schedule.

8. Self-Care is Essential!

Taking care of a newborn and older kids is hard work, and it’s easy to put yourself last. But you won’t be able to give your best to your family if you’re running on empty.

• Take short breaks: Whether it’s a quick walk around the block, a hot bath, or a few minutes of quiet reading, make sure to carve out time for yourself. Even small breaks can make a big difference in your energy and mood.

• Rest when the baby rests: This classic piece of advice is crucial! Try to nap when your newborn is napping to recharge and give your body the rest it needs.

Remember that it’s okay to keep things simple, ask for help when you need it, and cherish the small moments with your growing family. Happy holidays!

xoxo Holly