Baby's First Holiday Season

Depending on your baby's age during the holiday season, you may need to take extra precautions to ensure his safety around decorations, plants, and food.

If your little one is already crawling, you'll need to chaperone him at all times. Be sure to set hot food well away from curious hands and keep tablecloths out of Baby's reach; you can even keep your child in his high chair or in a baby carrier during dinner. Keep lit menorahs on high surfaces and regularly check your Christmas tree to make sure it is securely anchored within its stand. Many accidents occur this time of year when parents are distracted by family visitors, holiday festivities, and decorations. If you feel overwhelmed, enlist the help of another family member or a friend to take turns watching over your baby with you.

Don't succumb to the idea that you need to do anything to make other family members happy. No matter how you spend this first holiday with your new baby—whether you opt to travel, host your own family gathering, share gifts, or stay home, remember that this is your time—your new family's first holiday together. Relax and revel in the beautiful new life you and your spouse are sharing together during this special season.