Keeping Sleep on Track for the Holidays (and always!)

The holiday season is a magical time filled with joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. But for parents, it can also bring disruptions to your little one’s carefully crafted sleep routine. While it’s tempting to toss schedules aside for the sake of festivities, maintaining a consistent sleep routine is key to avoiding meltdowns and ensuring everyone has a happy holiday.

Here are some practical tips to keep your child’s sleep on track during the busiest time of the year:

You’re in Charge: Schedule Around Sleep

You are the CEO of your family’s schedule, and it’s perfectly okay to prioritize your child’s sleep needs. If a late-night gathering conflicts with bedtime, suggest alternatives that work better for your little one. For example, “We’d love to come over, but evenings past 7:30 don’t work well because it’s our baby’s bedtime. Could we come for lunch instead?”

Not everyone may understand, and that’s okay. They’re not the ones managing a cranky, overtired baby the next day! Most will appreciate how much happier and more engaged your child is during their awake times, proving that a well-rested baby truly is the life of the party.

Embrace the 80/20 Rule

Perfection isn’t realistic, especially during the holidays. Aim to stick to your child’s routine 80% of the time, allowing for some flexibility during special occasions. A slightly later bedtime or a nap in the car here and there won’t ruin your child’s sleep habits—just ensure these deviations don’t become the new normal.

Take the Sleep Setup on the Go

Create a Sleep-Friendly Space: If you’re celebrating away from home, set up a quiet sleep area in a spare room. A pack-and-play can provide a cozy, familiar spot for your baby to nap or sleep at their usual bedtime while you enjoy the festivities nearby.

Stick to the Routine: Bring your child’s bedtime routine on the road. Whether it’s a bath, story, or lullaby, these familiar cues help signal that it’s time to sleep, even in an unfamiliar environment.

Pack Comfort Items: Don’t forget your child’s favorite sleep items, like a special blanket, stuffed animal, or sleep sack. These small touches can help them feel secure and ready for rest. Don’t forget your sound machine!

Mind Wake Windows: Keep an eye on how long your baby is awake between naps. Overtiredness can make it much harder for them to settle down, no matter how festive the setting.

Keep Stress at Bay

It’s natural to worry about how others might perceive your focus on maintaining your child’s sleep routine. But prioritizing rest helps everyone have a more enjoyable time. Chances are, your family will admire how easily your baby naps or settles for bedtime—and they’ll appreciate the calmer, happier environment that comes with a well-rested child.

By blending structure with a bit of flexibility, you can make the most of the holiday season without sacrificing sleep. If you need more tailored strategies to handle sleep challenges year-round, check out my sleep support packages. Teaching your little one to sleep well is the gift that keeps on giving—for them and for you!

Happy holidays and sweet dreams!

Cheers to more Slumber Time!