Holiday gatherings can be stressful for your infant with irregular schedules, activities and meeting an assortment of family and friends. However, incorporating festive events in moderation can be both fun and beneficial for their development. To make the most of your tree trimming and visits to grandma’s home, you can keep the following tips in mind.
Adhere to a Schedule
Holiday gatherings may be full of excitement with visiting relatives, taking pictures, eating and catching up. While all of the attention can be fun for your little one, you still need to adhere to some kind of schedule. Sleeping and eating patterns can still be the same throughout this chaotic season, and it can help contribute to a happier baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities
While adults may be able to sit at a table for hours and visit with family and friends, your beloved has a short attention span, and you need to incorporate baby-friendly activities into the mix.
A portable infant activity gym such as made by Baby Einstein allows your child the opportunity to play in their own safe and germ-free environment. The attached mat has an assortment of colors, shapes and designs geared toward their own entertainment; the mat and attachments are detachable so it can be moved from room to room or house to house easily as needed. The gym adds to their pleasure with an overhead toy bar and games of peek-a-boo. This is also a great opportunity for your relatives to join in play with your baby.
An infant swing or bouncer replicates mom’s gentle rocking; it is another essential piece of equipment that comes with enough bells and whistles to entertain your child when you’re catching up with friends and family members. The soothing motions provide your infant with relaxing moves to calm them when things appear most hectic.
Remember Break Time
Adults can easily get overwhelmed and rundown during the holiday season with holiday shopping and seasonal festivities. The same goes for your baby–all the attention is great for a while, then tiredness and crankiness make an appearance. You can help your child avoid becoming overwhelmed and overtired by allowing them quiet time. You can ask your host for a quiet area in the home where you can escape to either feed your infant or place them down for a nap. This will ensure that they are refreshed, healthy and happy.
Take In Some Fresh Air
If the weather is conducive to an after meal walk, you’ll find a jogging stroller to be beneficial throughout the holidays. In addition to being able to digest your holiday meal properly, an outdoor stroll can be a great way for your child to get some fresh air and relax after a busy day.
Be Inventive and Creative
Babies love pattycake and peek-a-boo games; they will play with you for hours. Sing to them, play music for them, or help them make their music with their own coos and babbles. Many of today’s toys, such as found online at Baby Einstein, are colorful and equipped with music, sounds, mirrors and lights that can amuse them, hold their attention as well as benefit their growth and development.
The holidays are an ideal time to get-together with your loved ones. However, it can be challenging for infants to maintain a normal schedule. With the above helpful tips, you’ll be able to have a great time and ensure the health and wellness of your infant.
