How To Enjoy your holidays and Protect Your Child’s sleep
As we head into Thanksgiving week, I’m remembering what it felt like during my first holiday season as a new parent. Ashley was only two months old, I had finally found a little rhythm… and suddenly the calendar was filled with gatherings, expectations, and logistics.
Do we keep her on schedule and skip the fun?
Do we wing it and pray for the best?
Do we just cancel the holidays? (Relatable, right?)
Eleven years later, after supporting thousands of families and living through many versions of holidays-with-kids, here’s what I want you to know:
know your child
Some kids are incredibly adaptable. They can nap in different places, shift their schedule a little later or earlier, and bounce back quickly or never skip a beat.
If that’s your child, fantastic! Enjoy your holiday. Stay loosely aligned with their sleep needs, try to keep them well rested, and remember that one “off” day isn’t a dealbreaker for an otherwise rested child.
PLAN ACCORDINGLY If your child is NOT adaptable
If you have a little one who thrives on consistency, it’s absolutely okay to build your plans around their sleep. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
Here are your best options:
Schedule events around naps and bedtime whenever possible;
Host in your own home. With white noise, a dark room, and familiar surroundings, your child can sleep well even if there’s a house full of people;
Expect some bumps if things get off track, and reset as soon as you’re home. Most kids recover within a few days if they already have a solid foundation.
Protecting sleep doesn’t mean you’re “overdoing it”
I want you to hear this clearly:
Being mindful of your child’s sleep is not rigid, it’s responsive parenting.
Your child’s sleep needs do evolve (thankfully!). I remember how much easier holidays felt once Ashley was a toddler who could handle being awake for longer periods. We hosted holidays, timed everything around her post-nap window, and everyone had a better time because she was well-rested.
This stage is temporary
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The first year or two can feel intense when it comes to schedules, napping environments, and bedtime logistics.
But the truth is:
When you’ve built a healthy 24-hour sleep foundation, your child will return to their rhythm faster than you expect.
A gentle reminder as we head into holiday season
You don’t have to skip the holidays!
You also don’t have to sacrifice your child’s sleep.
Find the balance that works for your family, keep expectations realistic, and know that you’re doing a great job navigating a stage that truly doesn’t last forever.
Wishing you calm evenings, smooth naps, and a holiday filled with the best memories.
