four stress-free holiday ideas

It comes as no surprise that many people, and parents in particular, find the holidays to be stressful.  The amount of holiday events to go to and presents to get can often seem overwhelming. 

We've got four ideas to help your make the most of the holidays with your family.

1. Set a Schedule.  Determine ahead of time what your family's schedule is and set limits on how many parties and engagements you can attend.  For the holiday shopping, develop a budget that includes all gifts, decorations, food, etc. and stick to it.   

2. Evaluate your Gift Giving.  You may want to evaluate how many gifts your family is buying and just what you are buying your children. 

Instead of cleaning out the store, pick several key gifts. This will help your kids to recognize the more important parts of the season - like giving to others, or celebrating any religious beliefs your family may have.  Check out this article on dealing with your childrens' "gimmmeee"s this season.

3. Get Creative. Consider helping your children make holiday ornaments and cookies as gifts.  Give the gift of your time or any services you might be able to offer.  Your family's favorite cookies or your offer to take care of an elderly family member's lawn could make a very meaningful, yet affordable, gift.  

4. Make a Memory.  Your kids love spending time with you - they may not need all the fanfare and expense to find the magic in the season.  Driving around to look at Christmas lights, watching your favorite holiday TV special, or reading a holiday bedtime story are all easy ways you can make the season special.