If you’re like most parents you want to make sure this Christmas is the best one in history.

Which means shopping, cooking, caroling and don’t forget getting together with family.

“This time of year can can get stressful for various reasons….we all have packed schedules and things we need to do,” said Marriage and Family Therapist Ashlee Bost.

Be sure to be careful though.

Bost explained the more stressed you are, the bigger the impact it can have on your children, “Their behavior changes, they get more irritable.”

Then before you know it the holiday goes from delightful, to dreadful.

But, the good news it doesn’t have to be that way if you take the right steps.

“It’s called practicing self care. What that means is doing things that fill our tank,” explained Bost.

Bost said some of the best ways to do that: take a 15-minute break, get a massage or any another activity to get some ‘you time’.

Bost also recommends you stay active and don’t give up your exercise routine, “It’s really important to stick to your routine and still practice healthy habits.”

That also means keeping your kiddos on a good sleep schedule while they’re out of school.

Bost also said don’t be over focused on material things, “We get overwhelmed by those expectations and your kids aren’t necessarily going to remember the hot toy that year, they’re going to remember the memories you make with them.”

Bost says to remember quality over quantity.

She also said that these simple practices are also applicable to stressful family gatherings.

However, don’t forget to enjoy it.
Because before you know it the holidays will be over.