Prep
For some reason the holiday season, despite being at the same predictable time every year, does seem to sneak up on us. As parents there is lots to think about including gifts, travel plans and of course, food. Everybody wants to eat well, which means someone is responsible for planning, prepping and cooking. When it comes to Christmas Day in our house, I like to prepare as much as I can before, so that I can spend more time relaxing and enjoying the day. One dish we have made the last few years is an overnight French Toast. You prepare totally the day before, leave to sit in the fridge overnight, and then throw it in the oven on the day. We have it with ham and fruits for brunch/lunch. My favourite recipe comes from the ladies of The Sweet Potato Chronicles and it is delish. You can find it here.
Set up Manageable Traditions
While your kids are young you have the chance to set up traditions that will become special for all of you, and potentially pass down through your family. I’m sure you already have traditions that are important to you from your childhood. Along with the sentimental value they bring to the season, traditions also provide you some anchors which to plan from. Since they are the same from year to year, traditions require minimal decision making and are easy to involve the family in helping with. However, it might also be a good idea to stop and reflect. Make sure you are doing traditions because they are important and special to you, not because it’s the way it’s always been done. Maybe some traditions can be adapted for modern times, or simplified to be a little less preparation and a little more enjoyable. Including important traditions, which do not create an unmanageable workload, will result in fond memories for everyone, not memories of a stressed out parent trying to do everything.
Patience and Deep Breaths
The holidays can be an extremely exciting time for little ones. There are late nights, lots of sugar, lots of different family members and of course, gifts. Sometimes, this can be a lot of stimulation for children to manage and they might need some extra help and patience managing their emotions. They might need some extra hugs and deep breathing together, or chances to relax away from the action. Take some deep breaths yourself when you need it and try to read their cues for when they need your help. Last Christmas, for some reason I entered into a huge battle with my four year old over finishing her broccoli. That was not a wise parenting move. Keep your expectations for their behaviour reasonable considering their age and the context.
