NANA SAYS TWO MORE SLEEPS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

Parents have it very rough the days leading into Christmas. The children's excitement is through the roof. How many sleeps? Are we there yet? The elf on the shelf can just contain them for so long. Are you naughty or nice- Santa is watching becomes very thin! Eyeing those presents under the tree! Can't wait until Christmas morning! Children have a sugar overload even when there is lots of fruit and vegetables around the house! Love the tangerines and clementines this time of year! Getting children to eat the yummy fruit is another thing! Too much Christmas can be well too much! Relaxing activities like a movie- watched The Grinch that Stole Christmas with the grandchildren last night on their sleepover! Good to chill while eating snacks like popcorn! Even with the excitement too much together time can lead to conflicts! So try some separate activities with the children apart from each other. The areas that have snow provide outdoor activities that are good exercise and the fresh air tires the children. Skating on indoor rinks without the outdoor freeze can help too. The swimming pools are open that provide some entertainment and exercise! Children need to move. So even in the areas of Canada right now that are seasonally warmer than normal, get out for a walk! Good for the adults! If able to get to the snow, then the skiing, snow boarding and tobogganing can be great fun! Christmas does have its traditions so reading The Night Before Christmas, the Nativity story and other favourites can be quiet activities for the kids. Lots of crafts and colouring. My oldest granddaughter made a beautiful banner that is now in the dining room pinned on the curtain to be part of the Christmas dinner decorations. The noise, the excitement, the music, the hype is what I remember about Christmas as a child. Creating those same moments are important too. It is supposed to be a little hectic and chaotic! Remember it goes by so very quickly, so jump on and enjoy the ride!