Holidays usually conjure visions of decorating,
parties, family, fun, food, shopping, sharing, in general, good times. However,
if children are a part of the routine, one might also envision tears,
frustration, whining — in general, less than ideal times. With some forethought
and strategic planning, it is possible to enjoy pleasant holiday time with less
stress.
Combining sugary treats with busy schedules, shopping,
parties, missed naps, and late bed times is most probably going to lead to
not-so-happy children or parents. Nutrition and rest are even more important than
usual during these times. Because there is often an abundance of sweet snacks
and treats, well-planned meals are a must. Also, consider snacks and treats
that consist of healthy ingredients. It isn’t necessary to provide high sugar
foods (others will often do so in abundance).
Start early; plan menus to include less sugar, more
protein, and natural ingredients such as fruits and veggies. Attractive trays
can be arranged with healthy food choices depicting festive images (great ideas
can be found on Google, Pinterest and Facebook). Be sure your child(ren) eat at
regular times, following a routine schedule as much as possible.
For young children, breaks for naps are essential, as
well as adhering to routine bedtimes. Take advantage of your child’s naptime to
rest a bit yourself. Putting a child down to sleep is a great excuse to lie
down. Avoid added pressure of guests, families, parties, imposed obligations.
Resist feeling obligated to do everything asked of you. Prioritize and do only
what is truly important to you and your family. By keeping “running around” to
a minimum, you and your child will feel much happier and joyful for whatever
you truly want to do.
Gifts from the heart are always best. It isn’t
necessary to “break the bank” or even to spend hours shopping and struggling
with crowds. Letting your child work with you to create homemade gifts is in
itself a gift to your child. Perfection is not the key; it is the process, the
time spent with your child that will make lasting memories. Creating
decorations for your home is another wonderful way to celebrate with your
child(ren).
For young (3-6+) children’s gifts, consider tools they
can enjoy around their home. Child-size gardening tools, broom, mop (with a
real mop head), hand broom/dust pan, pretty dusting cloths, aprons, art
supplies (no markers, but crayons, paints, colored pencils, sketch books, an
easel). Some of these are appropriate for older children as well. For readers,
consider age appropriate books, novels, history, biographies, science, etc.
There are a myriad of “crafts kits” sold. But, why not
make your own kit? Learning their main interests, you might put together a
decorative box or bag of materials for sewing, crochet, knitting, cooking,
painting, camping, or gardening. Gift cards for more supplies would be a fun
addition.
The best idea is to “keep it simple.” No one benefits
from overdoing. There is truly such a thing as too much of a good thing. Less
is more. You get the idea. From Maria Montessori, herself: “It is a fact that strong stimulants do not make more acute but rather
tend to weaken the senses, which, as a result, demand stronger and stronger
excitement.” — By Judith Kemper
