STRESS-FREE Tips For Xmas Holiday For Parents

STRESS-FREE Tips For Xmas Holiday For Parents
By Gbelele Kelly
Xmas is a magical season for children. The holiday season brings lots of celebrations, parties and good times. It is no doubt, children are the most excited about holidays and they often enjoy the season more than adults.
Whether you are a parent that is going to be throwing a holiday party or you are going to be attending parties, one of the most important tips to enjoy your holiday without stress is to get the children to be on their best behaviour. Here are few ways to enjoy yourself during the Xmas holiday without stress:

Plan ahead. Get your holiday shopping done early because last minute holiday shopping is one of the most frustrating things to have to contend with. Set aside a specific day for shopping, visiting friends and other activities. This will help prevent last-minute, ‘Xmas Madness Shopping’.

Back-Up activities. Make sure you have a backup activity for your child. Let them indulge, but do not over indulge. Remember that the result of too much sugar upon our kids’ bodies affects their energy, mood, concentration and overall behaviour.

Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can not participate in every activity. Remember, you don’t have to keep everyone happy all the time. If the going gets tough, see if you can escape for just a bit and let someone else take responsibility.

Don’t Overspend. If your children ask for something really expensive and you can not afford it, be honest and tell them that, and say it does not mean you love them any less.

Safety First. For safety during the holidays, teach the children to stay away from the gas range and all gas-burning appliances, keep pot handles turned away from the front of the stove. Watch your children while you cook and keep breakables out of young kids’ reach.