Episode 32: Being Intentional about the Holidays – Finding a Fit for our Families
We return this season to the topic of Being Intentional about the Holidays and thinking about what will best fit our own individual crew, including ourselves. Keeping in mind our own rhythms and preferences alongside those of our family members, we remind ourselves that we have choice during this busy season and come up with some creative ideas for everyone to enjoy.
We Discuss:
Being mindful of our capacity and limits
Observing the menstrual cycle and the role it plays in higher and lower energy, etc, communicating about how we’re feeling
The importance of rest
Building in extra time on either side of Christmas to allow time for the range of things we’d like to do
Decorating whenever feels like the right time for us
Joy lists as a way of creating awareness and a menu of sorts of what each family member would like to do
Fun Family Christmas challenges as a way of keeping connected and giving shape to time together
Remembering we have choice even when sometimes it feels as if everything is necessary
Taking time to ask each family member what their hopes are for the season
Solidly including kids’ wishes in the plans
The value placed on “being ready for Christmas,” and its meaning of having presents ready and wrapped
Different strategies and pacing for gift shopping
Considering feelings of disappointment or letdown after the excitement
Setting our children up for success at various gatherings, parties and events
Letting kids know what other people at a gathering might be interested in and vice versa to facilitate points of connection
The change in dynamics as kids get older and adjusting plans and conversation accordingly
Social strategies – people’s thoughts are their own and it’s not our responsibility to change minds about homeschooling, particular parenting practices, etc
That difficulties can be opportunities
Creating an atmosphere/ambience (candles, decorations, music, swapping out regular things for a festive version while we’re getting something anyway) that “holds” even when energy and ideas are lower – kids will be fine if we don’t do “all the things”
Noticing what’s meaningful or nostalgic to our kids themselves- is there a small toy or decoration they tend to look for, an activity they ask about?
Consciously working on flexibility around traditions and understanding that changes can be hard for tradition-oriented kids and family members, including ourselves
Being financially intentional and also giving ourselves grace and flexibility
Proactive and practical ideas for calming and settling
Resources:
Boundaries 101: Raising Confident Learners with Liana Francisco, 90 Minute School Day Episode 30
Taking a Kinder Path to the Festivities for You, Your children and the Planet – Taking a Kinder Path
Festive Joy Lists – Taking a Kinder Path
Home Ed Resources: Festive Fun for all the Family- Taking a Kinder Path
Dealing with Conflict at Christmas – Taking a Kinder Path
Being Intentional about the Holidays – Ideas for Thoughtful Families, Episode 17