There is so much hype around ‘Christmas’ and it being such a magical time of year. Yet the reality for
many families is more meltdown than magic! There is so much extra to do, with presents to buy and wrap, cards to send, meals to plan, shop and prepare, and mountains of washing up afterwards! Hosting family and friends can become a pain rather than a pleasure, trying to tidy and clean the house. Is it possible to have a stress-free Christmas as a parent? Probably not, but there are ways to reduce the burden.
Food: Keep It Simple
If the idea of hosting fills you with dread, remember it’s your Christmas too! There’s no rule that says you need to prepare a three-course masterpiece. Buffet-style meals or simple one-pot dishes work well and leave you more time to relax. Make it a family effort—kids love getting involved in decorating biscuits or setting the table.
Social Events: It’s ok to say “No”
Christmas calendars can quickly get crowded. It’s okay to turn down invitations. Be clear with yourself about what you want to take on and let go of the guilt if you’re not hosting this year. A simple, “Thanks for the invite, but we’ll be keeping things low-key this year,” works fine.
Time Management: Plan Ahead
Start early and spread the workload. Make a list of gifts, food, and events, and tackle them bit by bit. Order what you can online and schedule in some family downtime so you’re not rushing around like a Christmas elf on overtime! Alternate busy days with quiet ones.
Keeping Kids Calm in the Countdown
For some children, the lead-up to Christmas can be as overwhelming as the big day itself. Excitement about Father Christmas can quickly tip into stress or anxiety, especially for children with additional needs.
Not every child finds the idea of a stranger entering their home comforting. One family I know avoids this by telling their children that Father Christmas leaves presents in the shed, and Mum and Dad bring them inside. Others reduce the anxiety around surprises. A friend helps her adopted daughter by explaining that Father Christmas delivers her presents early so they can wrap them together and put them under the tree. This brings certainty and reassurance, and you know what? She’s still thrilled with her gifts on Christmas morning.
It’s tempting to hype up the magic, but for some children, a more low-key approach works best. You may have to shift your lens as a parent—focus less on the “big surprise” and more on what makes your child feel safe and happy. They’ll still have a wonderful day.
Christmas is about spending time together as a family, enjoying a film or playing a game.
Give yourself the best present of all: don’t pressurise yourself into thinking everything has to be perfect, reduce your workload, get some daily down time, and enjoy it!
Merry Christmas!
If you have any Christmas tips share them below.
Joy offers a range of family support services. You can contact Joy to arrange a free 20-minute, no obligation call, to find out how she can best support you and your family.
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