Parenting at Christmas

Finding Joy and Balance During the Festive Season

Christmas is a magical time for kids but for parents it can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of planning, spending and keeping the peace. This time of year can bring both joy and challenges, whether you’re navigating co-parenting arrangements, managing tight budgets, or trying to keep the Christmas magic alive.

Here’s my guide to making Christmas meaningful, fun and as stress-free as possible for you and your family.

Simplify the Season - Focus on What Matters

Christmas can sometimes feel like a race to do it all. Endless activities, shopping, hosting and decorating. But kids don’t need all the bells and whistles to have a magical time.

It’s OK to Keep Things Simple

You don’t need to buy every gift on your child’s wish list to make Christmas special. What kids value most is time with you and the traditions you create together. 

Set Expectations Early

If your budget is tight or you’re keeping things simple this year, let your kids know ahead of time. For example, you might say, “Santa’s keeping it small this year, but we’re going to have so much fun together!” 

Let Them Feel Disappointed (Briefly!)

If your child is upset about not getting something they wanted, don’t feel pressured to “fix” it. Acknowledge their feelings (“I know you really wanted that toy”), and then gently redirect their focus to the fun parts of the day. Kids are surprisingly resilient and often bounce back quickly.

Keeping the Magic Alive Without Losing Your Cool

The magic of Christmas isn’t about extravagant gestures, but about creating a warm, joyful atmosphere that feels special.

Skip the Empty Threats

It’s tempting to use Santa as a bargaining tool (“If you don’t behave, Santa won’t come!”) but these threats can create more stress than they’re worth. Instead, focus on encouraging good behaviour in positive ways that don’t tie into Christmas. This helps keep the holiday feeling magical rather than conditional.

Find Joy in the Little Things

The magic is often in the simple moments. Leaving out cookies for Santa, reading Christmas stories, or watching your kids’ eyes light up when they see the tree. These traditions don’t need to be Instagram-perfect, they just need to feel meaningful for your family.

Don’t Overdo It

Remember, a stressed-out parent can’t fully enjoy the holiday. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and focus on what truly matters to you and your kids. You don’t need to attend every event or create Instagram-worthy decorations for it to be a great Christmas.

Handling Emotions: Yours and Theirs

Christmas can be a rollercoaster of emotions, especially for kids. The excitement, overstimulation, and change in routines can lead to meltdowns.

Watch for Signs of Overload

If your child seems cranky or overwhelmed, they might just need a break. Encourage some quiet time with a puzzle, a book, or a nap. Keeping a flexible schedule with room for downtime can make a big difference.

Take Care of Yourself Too

As parents, we often put everyone else’s needs first, but it’s important to look after yourself as well. Whether it’s sneaking a cup of tea in a quiet corner, going for a walk, or delegating some tasks, a little self-care goes a long way in keeping your own stress in check.

Co-Parenting at Christmas? Here’s How to Keep Things Calm for the Kids

Co-parenting during the holidays can feel tricky, but with a little teamwork and planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful.

Plan Ahead Together

Start by having an honest chat with your co-parent about the holiday plans. What will Christmas Day look like? Will the kids spend time with both parents, or will you alternate? Once you’ve agreed, share the plan with your kids so they know what to expect. This helps them feel secure and excited rather than anxious about the unknown.

Make Space for Togetherness (If You Can)

If you and your co-parent get along well, consider spending part of Christmas together. Sharing a meal or opening presents as a family can be a wonderful gift for your kids. Of course, this isn’t always possible (and that’s okay too), what matters most is that your children feel loved and cared for, no matter the setup.

Keep the Peace

Christmas isn’t the time to air grievances. If disagreements pop up, save them for another day. Keeping the focus on the kids and their happiness makes for a much smoother holiday.

Keep Joy at the Heart of Christmas

Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. It’s the love, laughter, and moments of togetherness that make it truly special. By keeping things simple, focusing on connection, and giving yourself permission to let go of perfection, you can create a Christmas your family will cherish for years to come.

So, here’s to a joyful, stress-free holiday filled with warm moments and happy memories. From our family to yours.

Merry Christmas!