The holiday season is a source of joy and festive entertainment for all, but nowhere else do we see the magic and wonderment of the holidays than through the eyes of a child. Some of us kids at heart still feel the same magic during the holidays as we did when we were young, but it simply cannot compare to marveling with delight at holiday stories of Santa and the oil that lit the lamps for eight nights, or the excitement of unwrapping holiday gifts.
The holidays are a feast for the sense, and for children, this feast can sometimes be overwhelming; the late nights, indulgent treats, and never ending pile of presents makes it easy to forget manners and kindness. It is important to remind children that despite the festive nature of the season, the need to kindness and politeness have not gone away – if anything we need them even more.
Remind your children that please and thank-yous are a year round requirement, and necessary even if the gift they’ve just opened isn’t what they were expecting. Prep them on the expected behaviour when visitors and family are over, reminding them of names of those distant aunts and uncles, to share with toys (even the new ones!) with cousins, and hyping up how cool the kid’s table will be at dinner can save headaches for you. Watch for signs for “too much holiday fun” to avoid a meltdown and allow your them time to themselves if you’ve got a full house over the holiday season.
Teach your children that the holiday season isn’t just about getting, it’s about giving too. Involving your child in seasonal charitable activities in a meaningful way will set them up to be lifelong givers. Some ways of getting your child involved could be allowing them to select a toy to donate to a toy drive, accompany you when delivering means, or work side by side in an appropriate non-profit event. Remember that children learn best through example, and seeing you involved in charitable activities will make a big impact on them.
Taking the time to teach your children the proper etiquette around the holiday season will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone; you won’t need to worry about being embarrassed by your child’s behaviour, and your children will have clear message of what your expectations are for their behaviour, no one likes to argue when there’s fun to be had.