Parents! Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress
I love sharing fun and useful products for parents! Some links I use are affiliate links including links for Amazon.com. I get paid a small commission without additional charge if you purchase from the links. The commissions fund this site to bring parents fun and helpful content! Thank you!
Do you want to invite some harmony into the holiday festivities this year?
Now is the time to start thinking about how we will plan and manage the upcoming holiday season!
In the list below, find a few new ways to mellow out your holiday routine and have more time to relax, enjoy, and connect with loved ones.
Ways to Simplify the Season
Family First
Add your family events to the holiday calendar first. Consider blocking a few extra days for a movie night with the kids or maybe a date-night for the parents!
Be prepared to say no to some events and invites.
It’s ok to limit the number of activities and parties you attend. Overscheduling causes stress even if the activities are all fun.
Keep holiday stories, coloring books, games, and puzzles handy for screen-free activity options for the kids.
Bundle up and go for walks in the neighborhood to see decorations and get some fresh air!
Stock up on healthy snacks and side dishes.
Tradition Tweaks
Parades, theater productions, concerts, and holiday community events are plentiful this time of year, and it is tempting to try to hit them all. Select a few to do every other year, or eliminate some.
Count on Convenience
Use delivery or pick-up options to save time.
Foil pans, crockpot liners, and paper plates will minimize kitchen clean-up!
Double up on recipes, and freeze the extras for busy nights as the holidays draw near.
Purchase extra gift cards
These come in handy for hostess gifts, forgotten gift exchanges, and last-minute donations. Purchase gift cards you will use if you end up with leftovers in January.
Tame the Mess
Consider doing messy activities together for one clean-up. Bake cookies and decorate gingerbread houses together. Wrap gifts and let the kids make cards or gifts while scissors and tape are already out.
Set up a gift-wrapping station. Have a box for scissors, tape, and pens. Place a trash can nearby!
Plan to try some of these tips and then grab a hot cup of your favorite beverage, sit down, and enjoy a relaxed holiday season!
Cheers!
Looking for more parenting inspiration? Check out these posts…
