Holidays & Baby Sleep
sleepyheads / Dec 09, 2025
How to Prepare for Joyful, Restful Celebrations
The holidays are a time of joy, family, and celebration—but for parents with little ones, they can also bring a wave of anxiety. Between travel, late-night gatherings, and disrupted routines, many worry: Will my baby sleep? And will I get any rest too?
The good news: with a little preparation, both baby and parents can enjoy the holidays without sacrificing sleep.
Why Holidays Disrupt Sleep
- Travel fatigue: Long car rides or flights can throw off nap schedules.
- New environments: Babies notice unfamiliar rooms, sounds, and smells.
- Excitement & overstimulation: Extra people, lights, and noise can make winding down harder.
- Late nights: Holiday dinners and parties often stretch past bedtime.
How Parents Can Prepare in Advance
1. Protect the Routine (as much as possible)
Babies thrive on predictability. Try to keep nap and bedtime rituals consistent—even if the timing shifts slightly. Bring familiar cues like their sleep sack/pillow, favorite bedtime book, or white noise machine.
2. Pack a Sleep Kit
Think of it as a ‘holiday sleep survival bag’
- White noise app or machine
- Comfort items (pacifier, lovey, blanket)
- Travel crib or bassinet
- Comfy Pyjamas
3. Plan Travel Around Sleep
- If driving, aim to leave around nap time so baby can sleep en-route.
- For flights, consider early morning or mid-afternoon when babies are less fussy.
4. Communicate with Family
Let relatives know baby’s sleep needs. A gentle ‘We’ll join dinner after bedtime’ sets expectations and avoids pressure.
5. Create a Calm Sleep Space
Even in a busy household, carve out a quiet corner. A dim room with familiar smells (like baby’s blanket) can help them settle faster.
6. Be Flexible, Not Rigid
Yes, routines matter—but holidays are special. If bedtime is 30 minutes late, don’t panic. Babies are resilient, and one-off changes won’t undo your hard work.
For Parents: Protect Your Rest Too
- Tag-team with your partner: Alternate who handles bedtime or night wakings.
- Nap when baby naps: Especially during travel days.
- Say no when needed: You don’t have to attend every event. Protecting your family’s rest is a valid reason.
Holidays are about connection, not perfection. By preparing in advance, you can balance festive fun with restful sleep—for both baby and parents. Remember: a well-rested family enjoys the holidays so much more.