Christmastime can be a time of celebration or fraught with stress. How can we have Celebration? Ask for help in the kitchen and around the house. Let’s make Christmas a totally shared experience!
How can I get my kids to help?
Our smaller children want to help. Sometimes that takes more of our time, but it’s an important step in their maturing and in our bonding with them.
Young children might be willing to help. “Let’s do it together” is a way of enticing them to enjoy our time together time doing things together.
Teens may resist. But persevere. Deep down they want to be part of the family, no matter what vibes they may project. Give them options, but not the option to opt out.
Young adults, will help if you tell them what you need. If they don’t, it may be because you were too fussy (that would be me!) or too relaxed and didn’t train them along the way. But it’s never too late. They’ll want to help because they love their mum — they just need to have some time flexibility and as with teens, maybe an option or two for preference.
Working together makes Christmas special. And can give you a lift when you may otherwise feel downtrodden, taken for granted. Asking is a start to getting what you need done. Asking is the key!
Have a very Merry Christmas. I think I’ll give myself a rest on Christmas Eve… which is next Wednesday, next posting day.
Have a blessed holiday season: Christmas, Hanukkah, a break from the usual. Happy Holidays, and every blessing to you…
Sarah