How to Survive and Enjoy Chinese New Year with Babies & Toddlers

Feb 16, 2026Plate&Play Team
How to Survive and Enjoy Chinese New Year with Babies & Toddlers

Chinese New Year visits are rarely a "quick hello." They’re a marathon of reunions, red packets, and a lot of noise. Navigating the festivities with a baby or toddler requires a bit of tactical planning. Here is our go-to guide for keep enjoy this festive season.

  1. Pack the Essentials

Having the basics on hand makes everything smoother. Here's a little checklist:

  • Easy-change outfits
  • More diapers and wipes
  • Milk/ formula, and plenty of water.
  • Snacks and/ or baby meals
  • A few favourite small toys or books for entertainment
2. Stick to the Routine

Babies and toddlers find comfort in their usual rhythm. While a bit of flexibility is expected, protecting their core routine will prevent a late-afternoon meltdown.

Try to schedule visits between nap times. If things get rowdy, step into a quiet room for a five-minute "reset." Having something ready-to-serve means you aren’t scrambling while everyone else is eating.

3. Keep the Schedule Flexible

CNY shouldn’t feel like a series of back-to-back appointments.  It’s okay to:

  • Skip a gathering
  • Leave early
  • Spread visits across different days
4. Set Firm (But Kind) Boundaries

You don’t have to agree to every request just because it’s a holiday. It is absolutely fine to politely decline:

  • Passing baby around
  • Staying too long
  • Activities that overwhelm your child. If the firecrackers or loud music are too much, it’s okay to step away.

Chinese New Year with little ones may look a bit different, but it can be just as meaningful. Go at your own pace, do what works for your family, and remember — you’re allowed to make things easier for yourself. Wishing you a calm, happy, and delicious celebration! 

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