The holiday season is full of joy, family gatherings, and fun—but it can also throw your baby’s sleep schedule for a loop. Travel, new environments, and busy days can make sticking to routines tricky, but with a little planning, you can keep your baby sleeping soundly through the holidays. Here’s how to help your little one (and you!) enjoy restful nights during the festive season.
1. Stick to a Routine as Much as Possible
Babies thrive on consistency, so try to keep their usual nap and bedtime schedule intact, even with holiday festivities. If you’re traveling, aim to stick to their regular wake-up and sleep times to keep their internal clock on track.
2. Bring Comforts From Home
When staying somewhere new, bring along familiar items like their crib sheet, favorite blanket, sleep sack, or white noise machine. The smell, feel, and sound of home can help them settle more easily in an unfamiliar space.
3. Create a Calm Sleep Environment
Even during the holidays, a dark, quiet, and cool room works best for sleep. Use blackout curtains, travel blackout shades, or a portable white noise machine to minimize disruptions from holiday lights, noise, or changes in location.
4. Plan Around Naps
If possible, schedule holiday activities around your baby’s nap times to prevent overtiredness, which can make bedtime harder. If you’re on the go, try for stroller or car naps, though they may not be as restorative as home naps.
5. Don’t Skip the Bedtime Routine
Even on the busiest holiday days, stick to your baby’s bedtime routine. Whether it’s a bath, a book, or a favorite lullaby, these cues signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and sleep.
6. Be Mindful of Overstimulation
Holiday gatherings can be exciting for everyone, but too much stimulation can make it harder for your baby to settle. If your baby seems overwhelmed, find a quiet space for some downtime before sleep.
7. Adjust Gradually for Travel
If you’re traveling across time zones, adjust your baby’s sleep schedule gradually by shifting their bedtime by 15–30 minutes each day until you’re on the new schedule. On arrival, try to get them plenty of natural light during the day to help reset their internal clock.
8. Keep Meals Consistent
For older babies on solids, try to keep meal times consistent to avoid hunger-related wake-ups. If you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure they’re getting their usual feeds on schedule.
9. Be Flexible but Realistic
The holidays are full of surprises, and it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. If your baby’s schedule gets off track for a day or two, don’t stress! Focus on getting back to their regular routine as soon as you can.
10. Prioritize Sleep When You Can
While it’s tempting to stay out late or pack your day with activities, prioritizing your baby’s sleep will help keep them (and you!) happy and well-rested throughout the holidays.
Enjoy the Season Together
The holidays are a time for making memories, and ensuring your baby’s sleep remains consistent will help everyone enjoy the season to the fullest. A well-rested baby is a happier baby, and you’ll feel more energized to savor every festive moment. With a little planning and flexibility, you can keep your baby’s sleep on track while enjoying all the holiday magic.
Happy Holidays and sweet dreams!