- Prepare as much as possible in advance, this is a busy time of year for you, however, your child will still expect you to care for them in the same way and maybe even more so. Plan, plan, plan, days out, visiting relatives, so you and your child will understand fully what you’re doing.
- Make a calendar of things you are going to do with your child over Christmas. This gives the children something to look forward to and structure.
- Christmas is a time of getting new toys etc. have some old favourite around as well and don’t be discouraged if your child reverts to them.
- No matter how old your child is, if they believe in Santa then bring them to visit him. I’m a firm believer in this. If it makes your child happy then that to me is all that matters.
- If your child will not eat “greens” every day, don’t expect him/her to eat it on Christmas day, it just won’t happen and you and your child will end up stressed.
- Plan to have a babysitter to give you a few hours to yourself and time to treat yourself to some (me time).
- Ask members of your family which afternoon over Christmas they would like to take your child out or to play with their child. (And do return the favour)
- Ask your child to help you out over Christmas, maybe putting the Christmas Crackers on the table, anything that is safe for him/she to do as children love a little responsibility.
- Ask your child would they like to have a playdate over at Christmas time or like to do something special with you.
- Don’t stress, if things go wrong, they go wrong. None one is perfect and enjoy the small things (as I know that being a parent of a wonderful boy with more than special needs you will understand what I mean.)
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas.