How to stay on track with sleep through the holidays.
The holidays bring joy, family gatherings, and a host of disruptions to your little one’s sleep routine. While it’s tempting to throw schedules out the window to accommodate festivities, staying consistent is essential to avoid meltdowns (yours and your baby’s!). Here’s how to keep your child’s sleep on track during the most wonderful (and hectic) time of the year.
You’re the boss of your child’s schedule
Remember that you are in charge of your family’s schedule. It’s perfectly fine to prioritise your child’s sleep needs over Aunt Sally’s late-night dinner plans. When family or friends invite you over, suggest times that align with your child’s sleep routine. For instance, “We’d love to come by, but an evening dinner past 7:30pm won’t work because that’s the baby’s bedtime. How about a lunch instead?”
Some may think you’re being too strict, and that’s okay. They aren’t the ones dealing with a cranky, overtired baby the next day! Most will appreciate how happy and engaged your little one is during their awake windows, proving that well-rested kids are the life of the party.
So I recommend sticking to their wake windows / sleep times as much as you can. Even during a busy holiday schedule, ensure your baby isn’t staying awake too long between naps. Over-tiredness makes it much harder for babies to settle, no matter how cozy their setup is.
Adopt the 80/20 Rule
Perfection isn’t realistic. Allow some flexibility during the holidays—aim for consistency 80% of the time. A slightly later bedtime or an on-the-go nap here and there likely won’t throw your child’s sleep into chaos. Just ensure these detours don’t become the new normal. Overtiredness builds up and after a few days of late nights and less sleep your little one will not be their happy little self!
Take your sleep setup with you
Bring a travel cot: This ensures baby has their own sleep space. If you can, set up a quiet sleep space in a spare room/office/bathroom (yes I have done this!) If this is not possible and they have to share a room with you I would recommend having as much space between your bed and theirs. You could even set up a temporary room divide (with furniture, a sheet or even a flattened cardboard box).
Recreate the bedtime routine: Do as much of your baby’s bedtime routine as possible, even when you’re away from home. Whether it’s a bath, books, or lullaby, these familiar steps will help signal that it’s time to sleep.
Bring comfort items: Pack your child’s sleep sack and if they have a favourite sleep toy / blanket bring that too. Having these familiar items nearby can make a big difference in helping them feel at ease in an unfamiliar setting.
Bring your white noise machine and nightlight (if your toddler/older child uses one at home).
Black out the windows for their naps. You could cover the windows with trash bags as a temporary measure. I always travel with these black out blinds to help darken my kids room on holiday.
Final Thoughts
Most importantly, don’t stress about what others might think. Chances are, your family will be amazed at how easily your baby naps or goes to bed, and you’ll all enjoy a more peaceful visit because of it.
By balancing boundaries with a bit of holiday flexibility, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing sleep. And if you’re looking for more detailed strategies to manage sleep challenges year-round, check out my sleep packages here. Teaching your little one to sleep well, is the gift of sleep that keeps on giving!