Festive Prep for Parents: Navigating the Holidays with Little Ones
Virgin Mojito (recipe included)
The holiday season can be a magical time filled with joy, love, and connection. However, it can also come with its own set of challenges, especially for new parents and families with young children. Here’s your ultimate guide to festive prep, making the holidays memorable while keeping the chaos at bay!
Holidays as a New Parent
Navigating the holidays as a new parent can be quite the adventure! Whether you're traveling with your little one or adjusting to new routines, remember that flexibility is key. Prioritize what matters most to you—whether that's spending time with loved ones, immersing yourself in the holiday spirit, or simply relaxing at home. Don't hesitate to lean on your support network for help; your joy and connection with your baby are what matter most. Finding that balance can make a world of difference.
Holidays with Young Children
Are holidays truly 'holidays' when you've got little ones in tow? It all depends on our mindset! Instead of wishing for a "perfect" holiday, focus on the moments that matter. Embrace the chaos that comes with young children—like sticky hands, unexpected meltdowns, and impromptu dance parties. Create traditions that resonate with your family, and cherish these simple joys, as they become the memories you’ll hold dear for years to come.
Traveling with Children Over the Holidays
Traveling with children during the holidays can be a beautiful yet demanding experience. Remember to temper your expectations! Consider planning shorter travel times and choose kid-friendly accommodations. Keep things simple: pack essentials like snacks, toys, and comfort items, and allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate for the unexpected. Most importantly, enjoy the journey together—take a deep breath, and embrace the adventure!
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Wondering how to enjoy the festivities while breastfeeding? You can still celebrate without compromising your needs! Here are some Australian guidelines to keep in mind: it’s generally safe to enjoy a drink, but timing isn’t everything. There are other key considerations like the alcohol level in each drink you consume, what and how much you eat before and during alcohol consumption, how much you weigh and how quickly you drink. Waiting a couple of hours before nursing isn’t the only thing to consider - for more information on this view the Australian Breastfeeding guide. One alternative might be to pump ahead of time to make sure your baby has enough milk.
Need some mocktail inspiration?
Try a refreshing Virgin Mojito for a festive touch without the alcohol:
Ingredients
10 mint leaves, large {or 15 small}
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp honey simple syrup (mixture of honey and water)
300 g sparkling water
ice optional
lime slices optional
Instructions
Place mint leaves and lime juice in a glass and muddle them together for 1 minute.
10 mint leaves, large,2 tbsp lime juice
Add the honey simple syrup.
2 tbsp honey simple syrup
Add the sparkling water.
300 g sparkling water
Garnish with lime slices, a sprig of mint, and/or fresh fruit.
lime slices
Notes
Recipe makes 1-2 servings depending on how sweet you’d like it to be.
For a lighter version, divide between 2 glasses, using 250-300 g of sparkling water each.
For a sweeter, more intense version, place ingredients in 1 glass and use 300 g of sparkling water.
Seeking cocktail inspiration?
A dear mum who has attended many of my mums and bubs yoga sessions and workshops LOVES to create different cocktails. Here is the Clausmopolitan that she has so generously shared with us:
Ingredients
45 mL Vodka
15 mL Cointreau
60 mL Cranberry Juice
30 mL Lime Juice
30 mL Pineapple Juice
Instructions
Garnish the rim of each glass with crushed up candy canes (you can dip the glass in sugar syrup first to help it stick)
Combine all ingredients in your shaker and shake with ice
Poor into your cocktail glass and top with Prosecco to taste
Notes
The mint of the candy cane is the real Christmas flavour punch here! You can also make as a punch if serving to a large group, just stir the ingredients in a jug with ice and add the Prosecco as your poor each glass.
You can follow Georgia’s cocktail page via Instagram: @cocktails_by_georgia
Final Thoughts
The holidays are all about connection, love, and creating lasting memories. By approaching this festive season with intention, flexibility, and a sense of humor, you can navigate the challenges that come your way. Remember, it's the imperfect moments that often turn into the most cherished memories. Wishing all parents a joyful and fulfilling holiday season!
