Mum-Made Magic | Surviving the Holidays without losing your sanity

Between festive celebrations, family gatherings, and a never-ending to-do list, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the chaos that your baby’s first Christmas can bring. But the truth is that the season doesn’t have to be perfect to be magical.

Keep It Real

Okay, first things first: forget about the picture-perfect Christmas mornings you see in movies. Spotless homes and perfectly wrapped gifts? Not happening (unless you have the capacity for that, in which case – amazing work mama). Instead, focus on creating moments that make you smile. Trust us, a cosy evening making handmade ornaments, or framing your maternity and newborn photo prints, or reading a festive storybook beats stressing over elaborate plans any day.

Baby’s First Traditions

Here’s the fun part: creating holiday traditions that include your little one. Sure, they might not understand what’s happening just yet, but it’s all about the memories you’re making, and can one day look back on with them.

  • Handprint Ornaments: Capture your baby’s tiny handprint (or footprints) in clay or paint. Instant keepsake!
  • Matching Family Pyjamas: Dress the whole family (including the baby!) in matching festive pyjamas and snap a photo. It’s a fun and easy tradition that grows with your family.
  • Baby’s First Stocking: Get a small stocking for your baby and fill it with simple items like teething toys, soft rattles, or baby snacks.
  • Baby Book Advent: Wrap up a selection of storybooks and unwrap one each night leading up to Christmas. Snuggling up for a bedtime read is the perfect way to slow down and soak up the season.
  • Holiday Light Hunt: Find a street near you with a few decorated houses, and take your baby for a twilight stroll or a drive. The twinkling lights are sure to attract their attention.
  • Messy Family Photo Session: Snap some family photos—coordinated outfits optional. The messy, imperfect ones often hold the most love (and laughs).
  • Holiday Treat Break: Bake festive cookies or just enjoy some store-bought ones while snuggling your baby. Bonus: postpartum snacks double as holiday magic.
  • Movie Night Magic: Watch your favourite holiday movie while your baby naps on you. Add some cosy blankets and twinkle lights to make it extra special.

Family Gatherings: Yay or Nay?

Let’s face it: holiday gatherings can be a lot. The secret to surviving (and maybe even enjoying) them? Boundaries.

Here’s the deal: it’s okay to say no. Feeling up for it? Great! Create a baby-friendly zone at the gathering where your little one can nap or chill. Hosting at home? Don’t do it all yourself—delegate tasks like cooking or cleaning to family members.

Mums Need Love Too

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Your well-being matters, so don’t skimp on self-care this season.

  • Stay hydrated and keep snacks handy—you’ll need the fuel.
  • Sneak in a nap when/if you can.
  • Feeling overwhelmed? Tag in your partner or family for some much-needed help.

Simplify the Season

Want to know the secret to a stress-free holiday? Simplification. Ditch the overcomplicated and embrace the easy:

  • Skip fancy wrapping. Gift bags or reusable wraps? Yes, please.
  • Streamline meals. Potluck-style dinners are a lifesaver.
  • Shop online. Seriously, why brave the crowds when you can click “add to cart” from your couch?

Remember the Little Things

At the end of the day, it’s not about the decorations, gifts, or elaborate meals. It’s about the moments that make you smile. The way your baby’s face lights up at the sound of jingle bells. The warmth of a quiet cuddle on the couch. Those are the things you’ll remember.

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BUMP & baby is New Zealand’s only magazine for pregnancy and early babyhood. Our team of mums and mums-to-be understand what it’s like to be pregnant in this connected age, and that’s why BUMP & Baby online is geared toward what pregnant women and new mums really want to know.

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