The holidays bring together loved ones to celebrate cherished traditions. As much as we enjoy these moments, they can pose a challenge for parents of babies with delicate immune systems. Viruses like RSV, flu, and colds are more common during this season, and little ones are especially vulnerable. Rest assured, protecting your baby doesn’t mean isolating yourself or offending anyone—it’s about gently prioritizing their health.

Here are some tips to navigate the season with love, care, and consideration for everyone.

1. Kindly Communicate Your Concerns

It’s okay to let loved ones know you’re being extra cautious this year. Frame it positively: “We’re so excited to celebrate with you, but we’re being careful to protect [baby’s name] since their immune system is still developing.” Most people will appreciate your thoughtfulness and support your efforts to keep your little one safe.

2. Encourage Hand Hygiene in a Friendly Way

Make handwashing a fun, family affair! You can even set up a festive “handwashing station” with holiday-themed soap. Let guests know it’s your way of keeping everyone healthy, including your baby. A simple, cheerful reminder like, “Let’s keep the germs away from [baby’s name]—hand sanitizer is right here!” goes a long way.

3. Set Gentle Boundaries Around Illness

It’s tricky when someone shows up with a sniffle or cough, but most people understand if you ask for a bit of space for your baby. You can say, “We hope you feel better soon! For now, we’re being extra careful about [baby’s name] staying healthy.” This approach keeps things respectful while emphasizing your baby’s needs.

4. Limit Exposure in Crowded Places

Holiday shopping or large gatherings can be overwhelming for little ones and increase their exposure to germs. Wearing your baby in a carrier not only provides comfort but also discourages others from getting too close. It’s a simple way to protect your baby without needing to explain yourself to strangers.

5. Create a Warm, Clean Environment at Home

Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and toys, and wash your baby’s hands regularly if they’re exploring. Keeping your home clean doesn’t have to be stressful—make it part of your daily routine.

6. Breastfeeding and Immunity Boosting

If you’re breastfeeding, remember that your milk provides antibodies that help protect your baby from illness. This natural boost to their immune system can be especially helpful during the holidays. If you’re formula-feeding, focus on other prevention measures—your care and love are the most important factors!

7. Respectfully Ask for Vaccination Support

If family members or caregivers are due for their flu, COVID-19, or Tdap vaccines, consider having a kind conversation about it. You might say, “We’re hoping to minimize risks for [baby’s name] this season, so we’d really appreciate it if you could stay up to date on your shots.”

8. Know When to Seek Medical Care

Even with the best prevention, babies can still get sick. Watch for signs of serious illness, such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Blue lips or fingernails
• High fever or lethargy
• Signs of dehydration

If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician.

Celebrate the Season with Peace of Mind

The holidays are about joy, connection, and love. By taking these gentle precautions, you’re ensuring your baby can enjoy this special season safely. With a little thoughtfulness, you can celebrate in a way that protects your baby and honors the relationships that matter most.

Expecting a baby in 2025? Make sure to check out my Lamaze Childbirth Workshop where you’ll learn anything and everything about preparing for the journey of a lifetime!

Happy Holidays to you and your family!

Best wishes, 

Your doula, 

Sabine