The festive season is a magical time filled with joy, family gatherings, and special traditions – we know many of you have the trifle ingredients and leg of lamb on your shopping lists. However, for families with children, especially newborns, the busy schedule can disrupt routines and lead to overtired little ones. Ensuring a balance between festivities and essential downtime is key to keeping everyone happy and healthy. Initially, it may seem like a little extra work, but your emotions will thank you for it.
Maintaining Sleep Schedules During the Festive Season
Sleep is vital for children of all ages and even more crucial for newborns. Babies under three months old need between 14 and 17 hours of sleep daily, typically in shorter naps rather than one long stretch (not an easy feat when everyone is in holiday mode). The bustling nature of the holiday season can disrupt this schedule, leading to overtired or overstimulated infants.
For newborns:
- Stick to Their Natural Rhythm: Newborns thrive on regular feeding and sleeping cycles. If you’re attending events, plan to arrive during their awake windows and ensure you have a quiet-ish space for naps (it’s also good to get them accustomed to sleeping through background noise.
- Create a Mobile Sleep Setup: If travelling, pack a portable crib or bassinet and items like white noise machines or sleep sacks to recreate a familiar sleep environment.
- Limit Overstimulation: Bright lights, loud noises, and constant attention from relatives can overwhelm babies. Create breaks in the festivities to soothe and settle them.
For toddlers and older children:
- Prioritise Consistent Bedtimes: While occasional late nights are inevitable, try to maintain regular sleep patterns. Adjust their schedule gradually if needed, allowing 15-30 minutes of flexibility around special events.
- Incorporate Calming Routines: After a lively day, a warm bath, bedtime story, or gentle lullaby can help older children wind down.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule major activities earlier to avoid interfering with bedtime routines.
Balancing Festivities with Downtime for Children
Little ones need breaks to recharge during the festive hustle. Striking a balance between social activities and rest ensures they don’t become overtired or cranky. Think about it: as adults, we become overstimulated, too.
- Alternate Busy Days with Rest Days: For newborns, stick to quieter days at home between outings. Toddlers and older kids can benefit from downtime with simple activities like colouring or reading.
- Create Quiet Corners: Set up a space where children can retreat to play quietly or rest at family gatherings.
- Communicate Boundaries: Let the extended family know your child’s rest schedule is a priority. While we advocate that children need to fit into your life, as parents, you know what’s best for you and your family. This season can be overwhelming for new parents, too, as you adjust to life as parents. Most relatives will understand the need to leave events early or skip one or two altogether.
Handling Sugar Highs and Festive Indulgence in a Healthy Way
Holidays often come with sugary treats and indulgent meals, which can be tricky for children to navigate. For newborns, sticking to their regular feeding schedule is vital. Breastmilk or formula should remain their sole source of nutrition during the first six months, as festive foods are unsuitable.
For toddlers and older children:
- Offer Healthy Alternatives: Incorporate festive but nutritious options like fruit platters, yoghurt parfaits, or whole-grain crackers with cheese.
- Teach Moderation: Allow a small treat or two, but balance it with regular meals rich in proteins and vegetables.
- Stay Hydrated: Encourage daily water consumption to counteract sugar and prevent dehydration in warm holiday weather.
- Plan Active Time: Counter sugar highs with physical activity, such as outdoor games or a family walk.
By maintaining consistent schedules, balancing activities with downtime, and managing festive indulgence, you can ensure your children (and you) have a relatively stress-free, enjoyable holiday season.
References
- National Sleep Foundation. (2024). Children’s Sleep Needs by Age. Retrieved from sleepfoundation.org.
- World Health Organization. (2024). Feeding Recommendations for Infants. Retrieved from who.int.
- Mayo Clinic. (2024). Tips for Newborn Sleep. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org.
