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Your Baby’s First Holiday
Author: Heather Montgomery
As you embark on your first holiday season with a baby, you might be feeling overwhelmed. Here are some ideas to help the season run smoothly:
Purge
Whether you celebrate the holidays by giving gifts or not, winter is a great time to purge all any baby items your little one has outgrown. Consider storing toys and clothes that no longer fit, toys that your baby has outgrown, or clothes that are not weather appropriate, in sturdy, air tight bins. Mark the bins clearly so you can re-use them for another baby, or so that you know what you are getting rid if you decide to donate or sell the items. Throw out any stained clothes and broken toys.
Make a Schedule
While your family will likely want to experience every moment of your child’s first holiday with her, make a schedule that you are comfortable with. Consider the interruption that travel might have on your baby’s sleeping or eating schedule.
Be Prepared
If you are traveling by air, make sure to check the Transportation Security web page to make sure you are up-to-date on which baby items you can and cannot take on an airplane. If your finances allow, consider booking an additional seat for your baby so that he can be safely secured in his car seat while on the plane. If you are driving, make sure to check road conditions before you head out, and be sure your car seat is securely and properly installed.
Establish Traditions
Whether it is taking a yearly family photo or making a certain yummy treat, establish traditions with your baby that you can look back on throughout the years.
Baby Proof
During the holiday season there are a lot of dangerous things for your child to get in to. Make sure your baby is never left unattended around decorations or hot food. If you have a tree, consider installing a baby gate around it, so that your inquisitive child does not have the opportunity to pull it on top of herself, or put ornaments and trinkets in her mouth.
Enjoy
Your child will only have one first holiday season. Enjoy it and make memories that will last for years to come!
