7 Ways to deal with family and kids during the December holidays!
The end of the year is finally here. Can you believe that we’re almost done with 2023?!
And what a year it has been. Many of us have faced huge challenges this year. From health issues to financial setbacks and family struggles. It has not been an easy year, and we all need a little break over the festive season.
But December often brings its own unique brand of chaos, particularly for families with kids.
When the children are on holiday, parents who are still working have to juggle childcare responsibilities. There’s also a lot of pressure over this time to host or visit loved ones, and it can quickly become overwhelming.
Here are 7 ways you and your partner can manage the December chaos this year:
1. Create a list of activities:
Get everyone in the family to write down what they'd like to do during the holidays. Plan and coordinate schedules so everyone gets to do something fun (within your budget!). Put this list where everyone can see it, like on the fridge or your family noticeboard.
2. Share responsibilities:
When the kids are home, there’s always more mess and more tidying to do. It shouldn’t be one person’s responsibility to be stuck with all the household duties. So, make a duty roster, and ensure everyone sticks to it. Get the kids involved in whatever chores are suitable for their age. You can even add the duty roster to a shared calendar between you and your partner for better organisation.
3. Seek help from friends and family:
Don't be shy about asking friends and family to pitch in when you host gatherings. Get your guests to bring their own drinks, and try to keep meals simple. Ask them to pitch in, and bring salads or desserts or their own braai meat. Keep meals simple. The focus should be on quality time together, not gourmet feasts that you have to pay for out of your own pocket.
4. Set a realistic budget:
The holidays can put a serious strain on your finances. Set a weekly budget, and get the children involved in discussions about holiday activities. This is a valuable life lesson that will benefit them in the future. Don't forget to factor in January expenses like school fees and uniforms.
5. Prioritise 'me-time':
Don't neglect self-care during the busyness of the holiday season. Schedule some 'me-time' and don't let anything get in the way of it. Even if it’s just a long bath by yourself, or a trip to a coffee shop with a friend, a manicure, or an afternoon of reading in the garden… Taking care of yourself is essential to being the best partner you can be.
6. Reflect and set goals:
Take a moment to sit together with your partner and reflect on the year, both the highs and the lows. Chat about the lessons that you learned while going through the ‘lows’ and how you can try to create more good times in the year ahead. Think about the people who have made a positive impact on your life. Don’t forget to reach out to them and express your gratitude. It doesn’t have to be a personalised Christmas card, send a WhatsApp or a phone call.
7. Treasure special moments:
Don't let your holiday become so busy that you need another holiday afterwards. Put your phone away, stop thinking about all the responsibilities, and take some time to just ‘be there’ with the people you love the most. Treasure the special moments amidst the chaos and embrace the support of friends and family.
Remember, the most precious gift you can give your loved ones is your time, love, and understanding. I hope you all have a truly blessed holiday season, and feel refreshed and ready to take on the new year ahead.