How to Handle Visitors Around Your Newborn During Christmas and Flu Season

Tips to navigate this joyful yet tricky time with confidence.

12/21/20243 min read

Christmas with a newborn
Christmas with a newborn

The holiday season is a magical time, but for new parents, it can also bring added stress, especially when it comes to managing visitors around your newborn. With Christmas gatherings often coinciding with flu season, it’s essential to set boundaries to protect your baby and maintain your peace of mind. Here are some tips to navigate this joyful yet tricky time with confidence.

1. Set Clear Boundaries Early

Before the holiday season gets into full swing, communicate your expectations to friends and family. Let them know your priorities for your baby’s health and your family’s well-being. For example, you might say:

  • "We’re so excited to see everyone, but we’re limiting visits to keep our baby safe during flu season."

  • "Please let us know if you’re feeling unwell or have been exposed to illness before visiting."

By setting the tone early, you can avoid uncomfortable conversations later on.

2. Limit the Number of Visitors

Having too many visitors at once can be overwhelming for you and your baby. Consider spacing out visits to ensure you have time to rest and bond as a family. You can politely ask guests to plan their visits around your schedule. For example:

  • "We’re keeping things low-key this year and spacing out visits to keep things manageable."

3. Prioritize Hygiene

Flu season means heightened attention to hygiene. When visitors come over, kindly request that they:

  • Wash their hands thoroughly before holding the baby.

  • Avoid kissing the baby, especially on their face or hands.

  • Stay away if they have any cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms.

You can make this easier by having hand sanitizer and tissues readily available.

4. Create a "Baby Zone"

If you’re hosting guests at home, designate a space where your baby can rest peacefully away from the hustle and bustle. Let visitors know that this area is off-limits to minimize overstimulation and exposure to germs. This allows your baby to have quiet time while you enjoy the festivities.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

It’s okay to decline visits if you feel they’re too much to handle or if you’re concerned about illness. Trust your instincts and prioritize what’s best for your family. You can say:

  • "We’re taking extra precautions this year and keeping visits to a minimum. We’ll share plenty of photos so you can still feel part of the celebration!"

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6. Plan Virtual Meet-Ups

For family members who are far away or feeling unwell, virtual meet-ups can be a great alternative. Schedule a video call so they can see your little one without the risk of spreading germs.

7. Enlist Support

If you have a partner, doula, or close friend, involve them in managing visitors. They can help communicate your boundaries, ensure visitors follow hygiene rules, or even play the "bad cop" role if needed.

8. Focus on Your Baby’s Cues

Your newborn’s needs come first. If your baby is fussy, overtired, or overstimulated, don’t hesitate to end a visit early. Most guests will understand if you say something like:

  • "It’s time for the baby’s nap now. We’ll catch up again soon!"

9. Take Care of Yourself

The postpartum period is a time for recovery and bonding. Don’t feel pressured to entertain or adhere to traditional holiday expectations. Allow yourself to enjoy quiet moments with your baby and focus on what matters most.

10. Celebrate in Your Own Way

Remember, it’s your baby’s first Christmas! Whether that means cosying up at home with your immediate family or carefully coordinating visits, do what feels right for you. The holidays are about love, connection, and creating new memories—on your terms.

Final Thoughts

The combination of a newborn, the holidays, and flu season can be a lot to handle, but with clear boundaries and proactive planning, you can protect your baby’s health and enjoy the season. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your family’s needs and say no when necessary. This Christmas, focus on soaking up those precious first moments with your little one—and know that your loved ones will understand.