Baby's First Christmas is arriving soon.  This "first" Christmas holiday is often one of the most important firsts in your baby's first 12 months. 

 

Here are a few tips to help you through the Holidays:

 

Minimize the overal activity

Keep the activity to a minimum when possible.  Resist the relatives and friends who are eager to hold your baby.  Let those well-meaning individuals know that your baby may become upset if she is "passed around" to too many people. 

Babies thrive on routine and prefer to be with those they feel most secure with.  Your baby may be upset with too much stimulation and travel.  Allow yourself the time to retire to a quite room with your baby if you think she needs some relaxation and a break from all the celebrations.  

 

Toys Toys Toys 

Baby really does not need many (shiny or expensive) toys at Christmas time.  This is most true when your baby is between the age of 1 and 10 months old.  Ask any parent what their baby or toddler's best loved toy was at Christmas time and you'll be surprised to hear "The boxes, the paper and the bows" were the baby's most played with items.  

 

Santa may be scary

Many parents want to have that First Christmas Photo taken with Santa but take heed; there are many infants who do not like Santa.  Our twin toddlers (now aged 5) still refuse to go and see Santa.  

 

Taking the best photos

Baby's First Christmas is all about the Photo Op' too.  BE sure your digital camera is charged or that your traditional camera has enough film and batteries to last the day.

 

Secure the tree

Anchor your Christmas Tree to the wall or ceiling or better yet, put the tree in a playpen or round gate.