Even if we mean well, buy Christmas pyjamas and mention the dark circles under our children’s eyes, it is not always easy to stick to the routine during the holiday season. We finish eating very late and children are eager to play with their new toys very early in the morning. We try to convince ourselves that it is only once a year after all but we are afraid to weaken our children and that they will catch every virus that comes their way. Here are a few suggestions to maintain a good balance and stay positive.
Napping
Even if your children are no longer at the age of napping, the holiday season is well suited for these moments of rest that break the day and prepare for the big parties coming up. You can set a naptime, say around 1:30, when all family members will lie down for a few minutes. Those who are less tired can read while the others sleep in a quiet house.
Keep up with your busy schedule
Some evenings are not as busy as others and you can use these as reminders of the schedule that usually reigns in your home. Send your children to bed at reasonable times instead of letting them watch movies very late. It is a great way to prepare everyone to eventually go back to school or daycare.
Healthy snacks
If you are worried about your child’s immune system, you can give them snacks that will help them wait until the next meal without munching on cookies, cakes and, pies. Of course, they will also eat desserts but when you realize that your last few meals were not very healthy either, you can read this article written by Nathalie Regimbal to find inspiration for healthier ways to snack!
Once a year
It is true that the holiday season does not reflect a very healthy lifestyle but before you slap your own wrist, look at your kids having fun, playing with cousins, talking with your aunts and keep in mind that losing control for a week is not the end of the world. Your children will be back to their routine in no time and might even enjoy it after spending an amazing holiday season playing, dreaming and snacking with the ones they love.
