Christmas is a time for priorities
I had barely closed the door behind the last trick-or-treater when the first signs of the holiday season began to appear.
The holidays are upon us, and parents often feel enormous pressure to “get it right.” We want our kids to be happy, and sometimes we feel like we must be ultra-organized and creative to make that happen. The frantic pace of regular life would slow down, giving us time to complete 1,000-piece puzzles while snacking on tasty treats.
Sustaining holiday can be difficult. In the rush to create pictureperfect holiday memories, we often fall into the trap of creating giant to-do lists, impossible to successfully complete. And the really important things — such as time together, traditions and goodwill — get lost.
Keep the following things in mind so everyone can enjoy a successful season:
Children need to learn that giving and receiving are reciprocal actions. When we give children the opportunity to give to others, we help them learn generosity, kindness and empathy. Some ageappropriate activities include visiting nursing homes to play games with residents, volunteering at a local food bank or delivering toys and presents to others.
Routines provide structure and a sense of safety and comfort. Holiday traditions are routines that occur the same way from year to year. Some may assume that new and improved ideas to entertain children are needed every year, yet in reality, children want and need holiday traditions repeated. Repetition in the order of events, the menu, the decorations, the stories told and the music played will help children establish memories associated with the holidays.
Anticipating and experiencing special occasions is important for children. While maintaining routines is important, children can also benefit from anticipating and participating in special events. Children love to count down to activities they look forward to, and the holiday season is a perfect time for this.
Shared stories and memories reflect family values. The holidays provide the perfect opportunity for children to hear family stories passed down through generations.
Meaningful interactions with family members make children feel loved. A parent’s full attention may mean more to a child than any gift. Time spent sitting on the floor playing is never wasted. A parent’s presence at performances in holiday programs communicates to children that they are loved.