The Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Part Two

Fun presents, extra sweets, a vacation from school—what’s not to like for a kid, at Christmastime? It is easy for children to get a little carried away.  There may even be a point, when your kids get cranky or overtired and would rather watch Netflix than sit and talk with Grandma and Grandpa.

Here are a few, very easy things you can do to ensure The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is celebrated – less stressfully.

DITCH THE DEVICES

There is a lot of hustle and bustle that you will be doing.  Don’t forget the kids.  Yes, there are times that Netflix can entertain them, but carve out time each day when you turn off the computer and TV, stash your phone and simply be present with your child. It doesn’t have to be long, just give them your attention for a few moments.  Remember their attention spans are short.

LET THEM HELP

You don’t have to do it all.  Include your kids when you are getting ready for your family gatherings, parties and putting up decorations. Depending on their age, your children can help decorate, bake and prepare meals, or wrap presents.  This is where holiday traditions begin.

TEACH THEM TO BE THANKFUL

No matter the age of your child, spend some quiet time before bed to acknowledge what you’re grateful for. By sharing what you are thankful for you are mirroring what you want your child to do.  When they can see thankfulness in you, it will be easy for them to respond thankfully too.

I posted a blog a few weeks ago that focused on teaching kids to be thankful.  You can read it here: How To Develop A Heart of Thankfulness In Your Kids

TAKE TIME TO LISTEN

There will be times when your children will be upset about something and it may be at an awkward time.  Take a moment and listen.  Allow them to speak their thoughts.  You may need to go to another room to not cause embarrassment.  But don’t allow their temper tantrum to throw you into a frenzy too. 

It is at these times that it may be easy to just rush over the situation, but stop and take a moment, connect with them.  This is what they are looking for.

HEAD IT OFF AT THE PASS

This time of the year, with so many things going on, I found that it is always good to head things off at the pass – early.  What do I mean?  You know which days are going to be busier than others.  So talk about the plans you have ahead of time.  You may think, “Well, they don’t need to know every detail.”  Not every detail, but give them a heads up.

Think about yourself.  Do you like to know what is going on ahead of time?  Do you like to know what to plan for?  I found out when my kids were younger, that by explaining to them, “This is what is happening today,” or “This is where we are going and why,” really helped keep the emotions in place.

Remember, they are kids. Try to include physical activity and downtime when your schedule gets hectic. Think ahead and have quick snacks you know your kids will eat, when in a pinch. Your kids will thank you.