Fay’s Top Five Christmas Tips for Parents – Fay Keenan
One thing’s for certain, Christmas is a whole different ballgame as an adult, and a parent, to how it used to be when I was the one excitedly hanging my stocking up and waiting for Father Christmas to visit. The expectations of the small people in your life can be immense, and Christmas means they’re ramped up even higher. Over the years, though, I’ve learned some tips to keep the season running smoothly, and although not everything always goes to plan, these tips help to keep me mostly on top of the festive season.
Keep an eye out for Christmas presents from September.
I might still be finishing the shopping in mid December, but I try to make an early start every year. If I see something that works, I try to buy it!
No drinking booze until the stockings are done.
Oh, I learned this the hard way a year or two ago, when I tried to be the Christmas Ninja after a couple of glasses of Cava and nearly got sprung by my then five year old daughter! Since then, I put the festive fizz on hold until Santa has visited, just in case the need to do a selection of ninjutsu moves arises to get me back across the bedroom floor!
Wrap the damned presents early…
…or you’ll end up half cut and sweary on Christmas Eve! I’m not an expert wrapper of presents, so the more time I have, the better.
Don’t try to compete with other people’s Christmases.
There’ll always be someone on Facebook with more lights, better table decorations or happier looking kids than you. Let them enjoy their Christmas and take absolute joy in yours, even if your paperchains are wonky.
5. And finally, number 5. Remember it’s meant to be enjoyed.
For parents everywhere, expectations can be huge, but at heart it’s about doing the best you can, with what you have. And if it all goes a bit wrong…there’s always next year!
Merry Christmas, everyone!