quick clicks

iparenting adoption articles

iparenting adoption q&a

message boards

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Baby's First Holidays

Making Them Memorable and Stress Free

By Gina Roberts-Grey, LCSW

Taking time to share a cup of cocoa after Baby has gone to bed helps the two of you stay connected during this added chaos. Jack Nowak fondly recalls that stage of their lives. "We used the time to discuss upcoming New Year's resolutions and our goals as a couple," he says. Adds Deanne, "There were times when we'd sit together staring blankly, but at least we took time to sit together."

Consider hiring a trusted babysitter or scheduling an afternoon for your baby to spend with family members so the two of you can go to lunch or shop together. Selecting items for your baby and extended family means you both can feel proud to bestow gifts on loved ones this year.

The first holidays you spend with your child are certain to produce a variety of emotions, and it is important to allot time to keep yourself mentally fresh. Your baby will have a memorable holiday as long as you have a positive attitude, because he'll sense if you're feeling overwhelmed or if you're enjoying the season. Getting plenty of sleep and maintaining your exercise regimen helps burn off holiday stress and the cookies and sweets we all love to indulge in this time of year.

Want to see more?

• Read more Holiday articles.
• Monkey Business: At-home Play for New Parents
• Blending Family Traditions: 3 Steps to a Terrific Holiday Season
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!