FAMILY MATTERS TIME – NOT STUFF – MAKES KIDS HAPPY!

A teacher shared a letter with parents describing what children tell her they love about Xmas – Emma says we should listen

As a mum, it’s A easy to give in to materialistic pressure at Christmas, thinking for your kids to enjoy the day they need everything on their list to Santa. In fact, that has little or no bearing on their happiness. This was highlighted by an anonymous teacher, whose letter to parents has gone viral online. She describes how after the school holidays kids come back and excitedly tell her about staying at Grandma’s, snuggling in your bed, staying in their PJS all day, playing cards, going swimming, and staying up until midnight on New Year’s Eve. They mention gifts, but for them Christmas is all about your love and time. She’s right. For the past two years I’ve given presents for The Salvation Army to distribute to less fortunate families, so my boys are learning to be compassionate, and our Christmases now are more about what we do rather than what we get. I know there’s a pressure to provide a perfect Christmas, but every study into happiness proves that children thrive on quality time and experiences they have with their parents, so you hold the key to your kids’ cherished memories. This Christmas, prioritise simple activities like winter walks, playing board games or charades – they’re fun, festive and, best of all, free. Making memories, singing and dancing to carols, and inviting friends and family to share in your celebrations are the priceless moments your children will remember forever. Gifts will be forgotten by Easter.

Life balance YOUR GUIDE TO EMOTIONAL ISSUES AND FAMILY LIFE WITH PSYCHOLOGIST EMMA KENNY