Survival Guide for your first holiday season as a mom
Holidays and motherhood...two of the most stressful experiences in life. As a new mom, you're likely already overwhelmed with sleepless nights, developmental milestones, and dirty diapers. Adding the pressure of the holiday season can make life as a new mom even more difficult. Take a deep breath, sit back, and relax! We've put together a survival guide to get you through the holidays as a new mom without the additional stress.
1. Learn to say no. It's easy to get swept up in the selflessness and charity of the holidays, and while it's great to spend time with friends, family, and helping others, it's also important you take care of yourself and your child first and foremost. Don't be afraid to turn down a party invitation or explain that you won't be able to bring a dish to dinner. Your true friends and family will understand your situation.
2. Ask for help. Motherhood is hard. Don't hesitate to ask for help babysitting during a party or asking another family member to host a holiday dinner this year. Your support system is there for this exact reason.
3. Give yourself a break. Running around buying gifts and cooking meals likely isn't in the cards for the first holiday season as a new mom, and that's totally okay. Your presence is a present as is, so don't be harsh on yourself for not going all-out this season.
4. Babyproof decorations. For peace of mind and safety purposes, babyproofing your home as well as any family member that you may be visiting is very important. Dangling ornaments at the bottom of a Christmas tree are quite enticing for a baby, so purchasing your own gate or play-pen to place around the base of the tree is a great, portable way to protect your baby.
This may feel like more of surviving rather than thriving, but remember to cherish these memories! Your baby's first holiday season is precious and should be enjoyed. Happy holidays!
Acenda Cares for Moms
Our team of Motherhood & Family Advocates provide pregnancy and child development resources for new and expectant parents from prenatal care through 5 years of age. We're here to help answer your questions and provide useful pregnancy and parenting support when you need it most. Best of all, our resources and support services are completely free for all families.
For more information about ACENDA'S MOTHERHOOD SERVICES or to speak with one of our motherhood advocates, please call 856-431-4180.
Sources:
https://thriftyniftymommy.com/surviving-the-holidays-as-a-new-mom/