Surviving Christmas Day

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The presents were piled up under the tree, and the babies didn’t go to sleep until twelve thirty-three. Now here you are at quarter past four, awake in the front room, eyes bleary and sore! You knew it wasn’t wise to have that Bailey’s before bed, now you’re watching Paw Patrol with a banging head. Sometimes Christmas isn't all it's cracked up to be, but with our help you'll make it past Boxing Day tea!’ 

Be prepared 

In the days leading up to Christmas Day, tackle little jobs that will help to make the day easier. Whether that’s peeling and freezing the spuds before the big day or making a little Christmas morning survival box that includes scissors, batteries, and a bin bag. Just try to do any little things that will help your Christmas day go a little more smoothly. 

There are also a few things you can consider before the day that might make it less overwhelming for your children, for example: 

• Spread the opening of gifts out across the day or the coming week 
• If they’re getting lots from friends or family, hold back on some of your own and save them for other occasions 
• Limit sugar if you think it will lead to disaster 
• Try to keep the core of your routine the same, such as bath, bed and mealtimes 

• Recognise that everyone will be tired in the afternoon, so if you have to visit people, do it in the morning 
• Factor in a quick walk outside to burn off some energy and restore melatonin levels which will help your children sleep later on. 
  

Lower your expectations 

If you have mapped out the most magical Christmas Day in your head, that even the big man himself would struggle to achieve, then you’re likely setting yourself up for a bit of disappointment. But if you have few expectations of the day, it is more than likely that Christmas Day will surpass your expectations. For example, go into the day knowing that it is highly likely that your children aren't going to be little angels all day. It is almost impossible for them to be when they’re out of routine, loaded with additional sugar, surviving on little sleep and overwhelmed with new gifts! Never mind struggling to share their new toys with their siblings. Go easy on them today. To read more about how to support your children with festive emotions, check out this article. 

Make life easier  

Remember that Christmas Day is JUST ONE DAY! You don’t have to be a people pleaser and make sure that you see everyone, video call everyone, and create an amazing, festive breakfast, dinner and tea! It’s impossible. Think about what you really want from your Christmas Day and set the expectations with those around you in advance. So, tell Auntie Norma you’ll be round before the new year and spend the time you would have spent in the car in your PJs. 

Take a moment for yourself 

Once dinner is done and everyone is feeling festively plump and strewn across the sofa, it is your time. This could mean escaping another Christmas film to have a bath, nipping out with the dog for a walk on your own or it might even be sitting in the garden with a mulled wine! Whatever it is that will bring you joy for ten minutes, do it! You deserve it! You made it through the day. 

Lastly, remember that it’s ok if you find it tough. Christmas isn't always full of good memories and joy and that is ok! Sadness and happiness can sit together. So, if you are missing someone this year, or are struggling for any reason, just know that this isn't going to 'ruin' Christmas for your children. Your love and presence is enough!