Children love Christmas. The child in us loves Christmas too if the memories are good ones. So how to make good memories and have fun amidst the work involved by parents and let's face it- the Mom! The Mom makes it happen, makes the lists, makes sure everything is on track. It is why most Moms start shopping and preparing months in advance of the big day. Believing in Santa brings another layer of buying. A big present from Mom and Dad and another big one from Santa. As children age the stocking stuffers become more expensive too. So how to enjoy the season and create memories so the stress does not pull you under. Take a step back and decide what is important to your children and family. The lists for Santa and the letter written. Can your children be part of the preparation!
Make one batch of cookies together or the Ginger Bread House.
Decorating the house together- depends on the interest and age of the children.
With modern times- the gift wrapping is easier with tissue and gift bags. In a hurry- use the gift wrapping table at the Mall.
Story books can have the Christmas story so including the religious component can be part of the bed time routine. Even older children like to revisit the story books from younger days.
A church service or two.
Children love music so have a CD or 2 to play for them during the season.
And sing along!
Decorating the tree together. When it is put up in your house, depends on your tradition.
Put on sappy Christmas movies. Sometimes having them in the background while you work or wrap can bring the softer side out in all of us.
Remember those family group shots can be from any event in the year. Most people love getting them in their Christmas card so those are definite memory makers. I have received lovely ones from a summer vacation so they do not need to be taken in December with Christmas ornaments unless you really want to have one!
Pacing, pacing, pacing! Take a task or 2 each day that is manageable.
Long lists to start! Keep a notebook with all purchases for each name. As one person is finished. give a check mark.
Keep the lists with you or in your date book or in your cell phone or computer!
Keep making short lists so you know where you are in preparations.
When feeling overwhelmed, pull in the troops. Grandparents can babysit while you wrap or shop or do some preparations. Of course, when you must attend those social work functions. And the functions for children should be fun times and not pressure times.
Do not compare what you want to do with what others do. It is about your home, your family and making your new traditions. Along with keeping some old ones.
Nana will probably have more to say on this subject. So take a deep breath as the busier part of the season is about to emerge.
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