If Possible, Feed the Baby in a Quiet Room
The holidays are usually filled with people, conversations, and laughter. That’s what makes the Holidays so special! But all that noise and commotion can be very overwhelming for a new baby. In addition to providing nourishment, feeding your baby (whether nursing or a bottle) also provides your baby with familiarity, comfort, and security. If you can tell your little one is starting to feel overstimulated, take her to a quiet area to feed her. This will help avoid a fussy baby and give you a few moments to yourself too!
Having said that, you don’t need to banish yourself to avoid offending your great Uncle Ralph. If he doesn’t like it, he can get a glass of nog in the kitchen. If your baby needs the quiet, awesome! If Uncle Ralph needs it… tough.
Wear Your Baby
The Holidays can be a source of anxiety for some moms because someone will in evidently want to touch and hold your baby. How do you now when you should let someone hold her? The answer is easy: When YOU are comfortable with it. The easiest way to avoid everyone wanting to hold your baby is to wear her. If she’s snuggled up close to you, people are less likely to touch her face or hands. This also helps you avoid feeling like you’re required to pass her around.
Another benefit to babywearing is a happy baby. Newborns are physiologically designed to be in close proximity to their mothers. The benefits are numerous, from regulating the baby’s body temperature to releasing hormones such as Oxytocin. Your newborn will feel at-home and secure against your chest.
Just Nod and Smile
The Holidays are also a time when everyone wants to give you advice. Just remember – YOU are the expert on your baby. And you, and the mother, can decide how you want to parent your little one. When someone gives you unsolicited advice, just nod and smile. No need to entertain their opinions, or to argue with their outdated and incorrect information. Unless you want to, of course. In that case, I recommend a glass of wine.
…and this should go without saying, but don’t forget to take your placenta capsules!!
