Pregnant and parenting over Christmas? This guide will see you through

Parenting is demanding on its own, but add pregnancy and Christmas into the mix, and things can feel overwhelming, fast. Whether you’re running after a toddler or juggling the needs of older kids, balancing their care with your body’s growing demands is a serious skill. 

And let’s face it – some days, simply keeping everyone alive feels like an achievement in itself. I feel you – and I know the burn out.

Surviving and thriving: parenting while pregnant

But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be perfect. Prioritize rest, ask for help, and embrace this mantra: we’re making it, we’re fine. This guide is here to help you navigate parenting while pregnant with practical tips, my own go-to self-care ideas (soaks in the tub aside), and encouragement to keep going through this busy season of life.

Or, simply to lean into a slower life, just for now. Let’s go (slowly).

Go for small wins

Pregnancy is tough, and so is parenting. Some days, your focus may simply be on survival – and that’s okay. If you keep the kids fed, dressed (pajamas count!), and somewhat happy, you’re winning. The extra crafts, festive baking, or outings are just a nice-to-have. One a week will fill up their cup. 

When you feel yourself nearing the edge of exhaustion (especially common in the first and third trimesters), do yourself a favor – ask for help before you get to the breaking point. Call a friend to sit with the kids, order dinner delivery, or take a moment to cry in the shower. I have, many times!

Give yourself permission to step away, breathe, and regroup. Remember, leaning on your support system is a strength, not a weakness.

Practical tips for managing life

1. Nourish yourself (without overcomplicating)

Growing a baby – especially while parenting – means your body needs extra care, but let’s keep it simple.

• Build a salad rotation: Hear me out! Having a few key elements in stock and throwing it all together keeps the essentials covered. My favorite: try a base of kale massaged with olive oil and lemon juice. Layer in toppings like blueberries, pomegranate seeds, shaved carrots, roasted beets, and seeds. Add a protein – salmon, roasted chicken, feta or halloumi all work beautifully (pasteurized cheeses, of course!)
• Bone broth boost: Bone broth is a pregnancy powerhouse, rich in collagen, minerals, and amino acids. Sip it as a warm drink or use it as a base for soups and stews.
• No-time alternative: If you’re short on time (because, let’s be real, who isn’t?), pre-packaged healthy options like protein-rich wraps, ready-to-eat soups, or smoothies can save the day. Try my favourite immune-boosting pregnancy smoothie from Zita West’s library, for a winter boost. 

Batch cooking can also be a game-changer, in the run up to Christmas. Maybe rope in your partner to support, or the cooks in your support network. My mother-in-law made us the most wonderful soup stash during my last pregnancy, which was so handy to pull out.

2. Prioritize rest and early nights

Whether it’s handing over bedtime duties to your partner or tweaking the kids’ routines for an earlier lights-out, getting enough sleep is essential. 

If pulling bedtime earlier isn’t an option, make downtime a priority after the kids are asleep – sip tea, read, or diffuse calming lavender or eucalyptus oils to signal your body it’s time to relax. I sprinkle a drop or two of these on a flannel in the shower and let the steam do its work. 

Read up: magnesium can be a really powerful sleep support, during pregnancy. Get the 101 on how to use it safely and effectively from experienced midwife (and world-famous fertility expert) Zita West.

Self-care is non-negotiable

I’ve been there. Pregnant moms – particularly at Christmas – often put themselves last. But taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s essential. Even small moments of self-care can make a big difference. 

These are my go-tos:

• Acupuncture: Incredibly effective, acupuncture can help with pregnancy-related issues like nausea, stress, and even improving sleep. Consider scheduling regular sessions, especially during the third trimester when physical discomfort tends to peak.
• Daily walks: A short walk outdoors can be a powerful mood booster, helping both your physical and mental health. Bundle up the kids or enjoy a solo stroll if possible (mine isn’t complete without a hot chocolate!)
• Diffusing essential oils: Lavender and eucalyptus can create a calming environment at home. Set up your diffuser to ease tension and stress – these scents really complement the natural Christmas vibes of fir and spice we have going on, too. 

Keeping your toddler occupied

Keeping little ones entertained while pregnant can feel daunting, especially on low-energy days. I wrote about not keeping my kids occupied in the summer – lots of the ideas can be tweaked and lifted – but if in doubt, these are pretty fail-safe: 

• Low-energy play: Channel slow living – and parenting – during this time. Sensory bins, puzzles, coloring books and stickers are fantastic for keeping toddlers engaged while you rest.
• Audiobooks and quiet time: Introduce age-appropriate audiobooks – I swear by a Yoto Player, nowadays – for a mix of storytelling and downtime. Bonus points if you can get them to listen while you rest on the couch! 
• Special “helper” activities: Involve them in simple tasks like folding laundry or setting the table. Toddlers love feeling useful, and it can double as bonding time. Plus, as we all know, Santa is watching. 

See all of these as excellent prep for when your new baby arrives. I really wished I’d encouraged and set my eldest up for a little more independent play and quiet time when my second baby was born. This is all great investment in your near future, as a family.

The holiday season: simplify, simplify, simplify

Outsource and delegate

This is not the year to go all out for the holidays. A few well-chosen shortcuts, cheat sheets and outsourcing gems can really help – I even found a wrapping service last week! Pick the things you don’t have time/energy/inclination for, and pass the baton. 

Here are a few ideas to get your list started (or shorter, depending on how you look at it!): 

• Grocery delivery services to handle your shopping list.
• Book help across the busiest days of the season – from your partner to friends and family – and ask if they’ll take the kids off your hands for an hour or two.
• Delegate the big roles – I love cooking, but kept it super-simple while pregnant and my partner took care of a pared-back menu. My plan was just to show up for my favourite – super chilled – aspects (watching Christmas movies with the kids, playing with them from the couch, going for a short, rambling walk, etc) and agreeing roles in advance.  

On that note – we recently put together this much-loved guide to gifting for new moms. For me, it’s all about creating the ultimate care package – and that includes ideas for help and nourishment. Check it out for inspo on what to ask for, when someone offers help.

Embrace slow traditions

Trade overwhelming outings for low-key traditions like movie nights, cookie decorating, reading together and your favourite games and puzzles. Plus, all of the hot chocolates. These moments are often the most cherished anyway.

Need-to-know Q&A

We put your most-asked questions and themes to our parenting team at TRB. Keep reading for our thoughts and experiences – we’ve been there, navigated and think you are absolutely amazing, mama!

My four year old is so clingy this pregnancy! Is this normal?

Yes, completely normal! Children tend to sense changes in your energy or routine, and this seems to lead to clinginess, in our experience anyway. Offering extra reassurance and quality time – even just 10 minutes of reading or cuddling – can help ease their worries. Encouraging independence in small tasks is another way to boost their confidence.

Can toddlers sense you’re pregnant?

While toddlers may not fully understand pregnancy, they’re incredibly perceptive. They might notice changes in your mood, routine, or growing belly. Use age-appropriate books or visuals to explain what’s happening, helping them feel included and less confused.

Can I pick up my toddler while pregnant?

Yes, but practice proper lifting techniques! Squat down, use your legs, and hold your toddler close to avoid straining your back. If you experience pain or have complications, consult your doctor.

Can my toddler sit on my pregnant belly?

For me (Jessie Day, senior editor and mom of two!), having my toddler sit on my bump simply wasn’t comfortable! Gentle sitting or cuddling is generally fine, but avoid situations where they might press or jump on your belly. 

Encourage side snuggles for safety – and remember, they’re really little. So if you can, avoid shouting out when they get a bit rambunctious or overzealous with your bump – calmly moving them to a different position and explaining why is the one!

With some planning, self-care, and support, parenting while pregnant can be a really lovely season of slow living (in parts!) Remember – this is just that – a season – and you’re doing great. Some days may feel chaotic – but ultimately, keeping everyone fed, safe, and loved is more than enough. 

A could-do for your list: add these gorgeous bits and bobs to your Christmas wishlist from our 2024 pregnancy and wellbeing gift guide – this time is about you, mama!