The Holidays can be a very stressful time: crowds in public places jammed together, long lines to see Santa, too much sugar and not enough sleep, the excitement of gifts. Not to mention crazy relatives! Many parents can't wait to get through the holidays because it's more stressful than joyful. It doesn't have to be this way. Here are 5 ways to plan ahead and ENJOY this holiday season.
(1) Set clear expectations repeatedly. Let your kids know ahead of time who is going to be at their grandparent's house, what time you are going to open presents. Eliminate surprises.
(2) Plan down time. Your kids NEED down time. Find a room-even if it's a bedroom-where they can get away, play contentedly with toys, listen to music and be refreshed. Ask a relative to take your child out for a short walk.
(3) Give your child specific jobs and responsibilities so they can help out and feel important. Can they help set the table, greet guests, hang lights with Grandma, take care of the younger kids, put on a show, create decorations for the house, like paper snowflakes?
(4) Keep your perspective and expect imperfection. Don't expect your child to act like an adult. This time of year is exciting and kids will be kids. Expect your teens to be bored--have them plan activities to do ahead of time. And don't be affected by their moods. Be prepared for things to not go as planned and laugh about it!
(5) Plan alone time for YOU. Yes, you need it. Don't feel guilty. Your alone time is good for everyone around you! Take advantage of the free sitters in the house. Talk, enjoy the quiet, grab a coffee and snack with your spouse or relative you haven't seen in awhile. When you take care of yourself, you can be calm and in charge.
(1) Set clear expectations repeatedly. Let your kids know ahead of time who is going to be at their grandparent's house, what time you are going to open presents. Eliminate surprises.
(2) Plan down time. Your kids NEED down time. Find a room-even if it's a bedroom-where they can get away, play contentedly with toys, listen to music and be refreshed. Ask a relative to take your child out for a short walk.
(3) Give your child specific jobs and responsibilities so they can help out and feel important. Can they help set the table, greet guests, hang lights with Grandma, take care of the younger kids, put on a show, create decorations for the house, like paper snowflakes?
(4) Keep your perspective and expect imperfection. Don't expect your child to act like an adult. This time of year is exciting and kids will be kids. Expect your teens to be bored--have them plan activities to do ahead of time. And don't be affected by their moods. Be prepared for things to not go as planned and laugh about it!
(5) Plan alone time for YOU. Yes, you need it. Don't feel guilty. Your alone time is good for everyone around you! Take advantage of the free sitters in the house. Talk, enjoy the quiet, grab a coffee and snack with your spouse or relative you haven't seen in awhile. When you take care of yourself, you can be calm and in charge.
You see, it just takes some planning to make this the magical time of year that it is. It really is a matter of prioritizing and learning to simplify
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