How to Protect Your Baby’s Sleep Over Christmas (Without Missing the Magic)

Christmas is such a magical time of year — but for parents, it can also bring a few challenges when it comes to baby sleep. Between the twinkly lights, the sugar highs (and lows), late nights, visitors, and disruptions to routine — it’s no surprise that many babies (and parents!) find sleep a little trickier during the festive season. But don’t worry — with a few gentle strategies, you can enjoy the magic of Christmas while still protecting your little one’s sleep.

Here’s how

1. Know Your Baby’s Sleep Needs

Every baby is different — and understanding your baby’s temperament and sleep needs will make the biggest difference.

If your baby is more easy going and tends to cope well with changes, you might find that a flexible approach works best. Don’t worry too much about staying on schedule — go with the flow and enjoy the moment.

If your baby has higher sleep needs or is more sensitive (like my daughter), then keeping naps and bedtime routines consistent will make the holidays much calmer for everyone.

If you’re visiting family or friends, it can really help to explain why your baby’s sleep routine matters — that sticking to it means you’ll all have a happier, less stressful time.

2. Bring Your Baby's Sleep Comforts When Travelling For Christmas

Sleeping away from home is hard — even for adults — so it’s completely normal if your little one needs more support while you’re away.

Think about how you can make sleep feel as familiar and safe as possible. That might mean:

• Sleeping in the same room (if safe)

• Bringing your baby’s usual bedding or sleep sack

• Packing a favourite bedtime story

• Taking along your sound machine or Groclock (if you use one)

When we stay at my sister’s house, my son loves his little inflatable toddler bed, and my daughter shares with me. For us, it feels like a festive treat — and everyone sleeps better knowing we’re close by.

3. Managing Your Baby's Bedtimes At Christmas

Late nights are almost inevitable over Christmas — but it’s worth thinking about how they’ll affect your little one.

For some children (like my son), a later bedtime isn’t a big deal — he either sleeps in the next morning or has an extra nap.

But for others (like my daughter), even one late night can lead to overtiredness and crankiness the next day.

If you know a late bedtime is coming:

• Try offering a short nap or car nap earlier in the day.

• Plan for an early bedtime the following night.

• If your baby struggles to stay up, settle them to sleep where you are — in a travel cot, pram, or carrier — and then do a short wind-down routine once you’re home.

4. Minimise Sugar Before Bedtime

Christmas treats are everywhere — but sugar close to bedtime can make it harder for little ones to settle. If your child is sensitive to sugar (like mine!), avoid sweet snacks after dinner. Instead, offer a protein-rich bedtime snack — such as hummus and toast, granola with yoghurt, or peanut butter on toast. This helps balance blood sugar and keeps them full through the night.

5. Plan for Calm, Not Perfection

The holidays can be overstimulating — for everyone. Lights, noise, new faces, excitement… it’s a lot for little nervous systems to process!

Build in quiet, grounding moments each day. That might mean:

• Cuddling and reading together in a quiet room

• Feeding or rocking in a calm space

• Taking a short walk in the carrier or pram

Even 10 minutes of calm connection can make a big difference to how your baby settles later.

6. Get Lots of Fresh Air and Daylight

It’s easy to stay inside watching Christmas films — but natural light and fresh air are vital for regulating your baby’s circadian rhythm (their internal body clock).

Try to get outside every day, especially in the morning. Fresh air, movement, and daylight boost sleep quality and support your own mental wellbeing too.

When family life feels hectic, a simple park trip or walk can reset everyone’s mood.

7. Remember: You Know Your Baby Best

You are the expert on your child. You know if a missed nap will lead to tears, or if a late bedtime is worth it for that special family moment. Don’t be afraid to make plans that protect your child’s sleep needs — you’ll all enjoy the holidays more when everyone’s rested and happy.

8. Leave Holiday Sleep Habits on Holiday

If you try something different while travelling — like bedsharing, contact naps, or extra feeds — don’t stress about it. You can always return to your usual routines once you’re home. There are no bad sleep habits — only what works for your family in the moment. When you’re ready to get back on track, consistency and connection will gently guide your baby back to familiar sleep rhythms.

Final Thoughts

The festive season doesn’t have to mean sleepless nights. By tuning into your baby’s needs, planning for rest, and giving yourself permission to let go of perfect, you can protect your little one’s sleep and keep the magic alive.

If you’d like more practical, gentle sleep advice — explore my online sleep courses (with lifetime access) or one-to-one support. You don’t need to wait until after Christmas — my packages include advice for right now and when you’re ready to return to your usual routines.

Wishing you and your family a peaceful, joy-filled Christmas 🤍