So, you’re a new mom and you’re thinking about taking a newborn to a family gathering. How exciting! It’s only natural to want to introduce your little one to everyone. But it’s also understandably stressful, especially if it’s your first time bringing your bundle of joy to an event. These helpful tips will ensure that your baby’s first family gathering is a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, including yourself.
What to Consider When Taking a Newborn to a Family Gathering
Getting out of the house with your new baby can feel daunting enough let alone attending an event with them. When you’re planning to take your precious newborn to a family gathering, there are a few key things to keep in mind to make it a positive experience.
Above anything else, you’ll want to prioritize your baby’s comfort and well-being.
You can do this by making sure that the environment is safe, comfortable, and not too overwhelming for your little one.
Take into consideration different factors like noise levels, the timing of the event, and even the size of the crowd.
Family gatherings can get a little chaotic, making it easy to lose track of time, so you’ll want to be mindful of your baby’s feeding and sleeping schedule. While most newborns don’t follow rigid routines, you don’t want them getting hungry or overtired or overstimulated while out socializing either.
Try to find a safe and quiet spot where you can feed your little one, put them down for a nap or even just a relaxing spot if you need a few moments of peace.
Ask yourself what your comfort level is on allowing others to hold your new baby and what sort of boundaries you may want to set to keep your little one distanced from germs or anyone who may be sick.
By focusing on your baby’s comfort and needs, you’re more likely to show off a happy baby and actually enjoy the get-together.
Can I Take my Newborn to Family Gatherings?
Let’s step back for a moment and discuss going to family gatherings with a newborn.
You can take a newborn to family gatherings as long as your doctor hasn’t recommended against it and you feel comfortable doing so. As newborns’ immune systems are still developing, it’s important to ensure their safety and well-being by limiting their exposure to people who are sick.
Be mindful of their feeding and sleeping needs as well as the noise levels of the event so that your little one feels comfortable and content.
By following a few tips, you’ll feel prepared and excited to take your bundle of joy to meet the family.
Helpful Tips When Bringing a Newborn to a Gathering
When bringing a newborn to a gathering, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure their safety and comfort, as well as your own peace of mind. New parents often have a range of questions and concerns about taking their newborn to a family event so here are some tips that may be helpful.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can help ensure a smooth experience when taking your newborn to a family gathering.
Try to choose the best time to attend the gathering (if possible) according to your baby’s schedule. You may want to go before or after their main/longest nap time and avoid peak fussiness periods (witching hour).
Plan for a shorter visit initially and only stay longer if both you and your baby feel ready to.
Prepack a diaper bag with all the essentials, plus anything else you may need during the gathering, such as a travel crib, nursing cover, swaddle, or white noise machine.
Ask the host before the event if there’s a quiet space you could use to privately feed your little one or if you just need to get away for a bit.
Understand that your baby may need breaks from so much stimulation so a private area of the house could be beneficial to calm them if they become overwhelmed.
Communicate with the family in advance about your expectations, the baby’s needs, or any other preferences you may have.
By planning ahead and communicating your concerns, you can feel more at ease taking your newborn to the family event.
Bring Any and All Necessary Supplies to the Family Gathering
Be prepared with supplies. It’s better to bring too much and not use it than wish you would have packed something that you didn’t.
Make sure to bring enough diapers, wipes, formula (if needed), and extra clothing just in case.
Think about bringing a travel crib or a stroller for napping and a baby wrap or carrier to keep the baby close to you.
A light blanket may be useful in case you’re unsure of the temperature. As well as a nursing cover if it makes you feel more comfortable or if it helps your little one feed with less distraction.
If you think noise may be an issue, a portable sound machine could help drown out louder voices or music.
Lastly, pack any items that may help your baby feel more comfortable such as a lovey or pacifier.
Set Boundaries and Communicate Them With Family Members
One of the things that make new parents nervous about bringing a newborn baby to a large gathering is how to manage everyone holding and handling your baby.
Family members are just so excited to see the little bundle of joy but you’re full of nerves about germs, illnesses, and your little one’s developing immune system.
By thinking about your comfort (or discomfort) levels before the event, you can plan and communicate accordingly.
Explain to your family how you’re feeling and the importance of proper hygiene and maintaining physical distance if anyone is ill.
Tell them that you want to go so that they can SEE the newest family member but your little one may feel overstimulated if they are passed from person to person.
Pay attention to your baby’s cues and behaviour, and if they seem uncomfortable or overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break or even leave the gathering early.
So, what should you do if someone wants to hold your newborn?
If you feel comfortable with it, then great! But it’s perfectly acceptable to politely decline if you’re not comfortable with someone holding your newborn.
Your job is to prioritize your baby’s safety and well-being, and if you’re unsure about someone’s health or hygiene or ability to hold them properly, it’s okay to say no.
Watch for Signs of a Tired or Overstimulated Baby
Newborns need a lot of sleep, so it’s important to choose an amount of time socializing that will also allow them to rest when they need it.
Sure, they can sleep at the party but if it’s difficult for them to doze off with so many people around you may need to find a spot that’s quiet.
Try to catch your little one’s cues of becoming tired or overstimulated. Some signs of overtiredness or overstimulation are:
- Acting fussy
- Crying
- Turning their head away
- Yawning
- Rubbing their face
- Difficult to soothe
What should you do if your newborn becomes fussy or overwhelmed at the gathering?
Pay attention to your little one’s behaviour to catch any early cues that they’re getting tired or overwhelmed.
If your newborn is getting fussy at a gathering, pop outside or to a quiet area of the house for a break. Sometimes fresh air or a change of scenery will do the trick.
Check that all their obvious needs are met (fed, rested, clean diaper and just the right temperature).
If they still won’t settle, maybe it’s their way of saying they’ve had enough. It’s okay if you need to leave the gathering early.
The highest priority is your baby’s welfare (as well as your own).
Ask the Host for a Quiet and Private Spot for Feeding and Napping
Depending on the type of gathering, the lights, noise levels and new gawking faces may become a bit too much for your newborn. If you think this may be the case, ask the host if there’s a quiet area of the house for your little one to eat or sleep privately.
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed about going to a large outing with your newborn, a quiet spot may be beneficial for you to take a break as well.
Having a retreat to sneak away to can help prevent sensory overload for your little one and offer a safe space for you to have some distraction-free one-on-one time.
Remember, every baby is different, and their tolerance for stimulation and noise will vary. You know your baby best so pay attention to your baby’s signals and take the breaks whenever necessary.
Wearing Your Newborn Can Help Limit Their Exposure to Germs
This tip may be especially useful for those adventuring out to their baby’s first gathering during the cold/flu season. Newborns’ immune systems are still developing so while you can do your best to keep them away from sick people, wearing them in a wrap or infant carrier may help limit their exposure to germs.
It will also help keep your little one safe and snug against your body creating some physical distance from others. As they are wrapped and cozy, you get to decide who holds them and when.
The wrap also acts as a bit of an excuse not to pass the baby around if you aren’t ready for that. (And well-meaning family can’t just come and scoop the baby out of your arms.)
As you’ll likely be greeting others and in a new, possibly busy, environment, make sure to wash your hands frequently. It’s also a good idea to avoid touching your baby’s face and hands.
While you’ll likely try to keep your newborn away from anyone who is sick, you can also ask others to wash their hands before holding the baby.
Be Flexible and Adapt to Your Baby’s Needs as Well as Your Own
Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself and your baby is to be flexible and adapt plans as needed.
Many new parents start looking for information about taking a newborn to a family gathering before the baby is even born. While it’s great to plan ahead, especially if travel is involved or numbers are required for confirmation, allow yourself to be on the fence until closer to the date.
Why would I say this?
Well, you may be surprised at how differently you feel once the baby is here or how your postpartum recovery journey unfolds.
If possible, try not to commit yourself and your baby to any big event until you actually see how life changes with your newborn. Or at least warn the host that you aren’t 100% sure how you’ll be feeling.
If you do commit and you’re not comfortable, remove yourself and the baby from the event.
You should feel confident to change your mind. It’s ok to say no. You know your baby (and your body) best.
Tips for Reducing Stress When Taking a Newborn to a Gathering
Taking a newborn to a family gathering can sometimes feel overwhelming and stressful. There are a number of things that you can do that may help reduce stress in these situations.
Ask for Help From Other Family Members
It’s hard to help someone who doesn’t communicate their needs so it’s your job to do just that.
Reach out to the host or other family members before the gathering to discuss your baby’s needs and any concerns you may have.
If there’s a family member you trust most, maybe they can help pass along any specific preferences you have about the event.
Open communication can feel intimidating but it will help set expectations and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Be Flexible and Realistic
This one can sometimes be easier said than done but worth mentioning nonetheless.
Look, babies are unpredictable. You may still be figuring things out yourself.
Understand that the day may not go exactly as planned and that’s totally okay.
If you remain realistic with your expectations and flexible with your plans, it’s more probable that you’ll enjoy your time rather than feel completely stressed.
Know that it’s alright to change your plans, ask for help or leave early if needed.
Take Turns Caring for the Baby
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family members, or close friends so that you can enjoy the event as well.
Sharing the responsibilities of caring for your baby during the gathering will help take some weight off your shoulders so that you can also enjoy a little socializing.
Find Joy in the Opportunity to Share Your Newborn With Family
Remember that your family is probably so excited to welcome a new member to the clan. A family gathering with your newborn is a very special opportunity for others to bond and make memories with your expanding family.
New experiences can feel overwhelming as you find the reigns of this new thing called motherhood but by focusing on the positive, you may be surprised at how enjoyable these moments can be.
Alternatives to Family Gatherings With a Newborn that Encourage Bonding With the Baby
If you’re not quite ready to bring your newborn to a family gathering, there are alternatives that still encourage bonding with the baby on a more relaxed level.
Open Your House for Family to Visit After the Baby is Born
Instead of going to a big family gathering, you can arrange smaller, more intimate visits within the comfort of your own home. Invite smaller groups of family to visit after the baby is born so that you (and the baby) don’t feel as overwhelmed with a big crowd.
This allows for family members or close friends to meet your baby and create special memories while remaining in a more controlled and familiar environment.
If you think timing will be the issue, consider meeting family at a cafe or restaurant with your newborn so that the visit doesn’t continue on for too long. Everyone can say a quick hello to the baby but then focus on eating their meal.
Meet Outdoors in a Park
Take advantage of being outdoors to allow others to bond with your baby.
Picnics in the park, walks in nature, or even visits to a nearby beach are the perfect relaxed plan to enjoy with family members.
Fresh air and comfortable surroundings can offer a less-stressful time to connect with others while appreciating the beauty of nature.
Schedule Video Calls
Most family members are just eager to admire this little wonder that you’ve brought into the world. If you find yourself not quite ready for family gatherings or in-person visits, why not schedule some video calls with your loved ones?
Video calls may offer a worry-free moment to have some meaningful conversations with family while they see the new baby on the screen.
Remember, what counts most is creating moments of undivided attention and connection with your baby.
These alternatives to family gatherings offer opportunities for bonding while still taking your baby’s needs into consideration, as well as your own.
Final Thoughts on Taking a Newborn to a Gathering
Taking a newborn to a family gathering can be a great way to introduce your little one to those you love. While it may seem daunting, with some preparation and a few strategies in place, you can navigate the gathering with confidence and minimize stress. By planning ahead, communicating your needs or concerns, or even considering other alternatives, you can find opportunities for creating connections and lasting memories with your baby and your family.