Staying Home or Going Out?
The choice to stay home or go somewhere depends on your personal preference. If you choose to stay home, you can create a cozy atmosphere with your family. If you decide to celebrate the New Year with friends or family, arrange for a babysitter, such as grandparents.
Should I wake up my little one at 12:00 a.m.?
One of the most frequently asked questions when you have a little one is whether to wake them up at midnight. The answer depends on your baby's sleep habits and age. If your baby is only a few weeks old and follows a strict sleep routine, it's better to let them sleep. Your baby doesn't understand the hustle and bustle of New Year's Eve, and waking them up unnecessarily might disturb their deep sleep.
If your child is a bit older, you can choose to put them to bed. At midnight, you can briefly let them watch the fireworks and then tuck them back into bed. If your child still needs a feeding, and it happens around 12:00 a.m., you might consider waking them up an hour earlier, so your little one isn't startled by the fireworks at midnight. Ensure there is at least a 2-hour gap between feedings.
Won't my baby wake up because of the fireworks?
Loud fireworks can indeed pose problems if your baby is peacefully asleep. Here are a few tips to ensure your baby sleeps comfortably even with fireworks outside:
- A calm sleep environment: Ensure that your little one's bedroom is dark and quiet.
- If your baby sleeps better with a soft sound, consider playing gentle, soothing background sounds, such as a music box or a stuffed animal with music.
- Avoid setting off fireworks yourself if your baby happens to be awake. If you want to show them the fireworks, do so safely and warmly from behind the window. Remember: there's no such thing as baby fireworks!
Celebrating New Year with the Family
If you prefer staying home for your little ones but still want to celebrate with family, you can start your party a bit earlier. Invite everyone for a joint family dinner, play a fun board game, and toast to the New Year. This way, you can celebrate the evening in a beautiful way, let your child sleep peacefully in their own bed, and stay comfortably at home. No matter how enjoyable the party is, keep in mind that your baby can wake up at any time. It's nice if you or your partner stays sober, especially in case you unexpectedly need to drive. Make clear agreements about this. A clear morning after New Year's Eve is also pleasant.
