Simplifying
I don’t know what it’s like for you, but for me, Christmas is crazy. I know it’s wonderful and I love it (some of it) but the to do lists, the events, the dates to coordinate, the food to prepare, all the things to buy–this large family mom barely gets through if I’m just being brutally honest with you.
Anyone else?
Well, you know I already feel like “school” is kind of a sham. We make it too much about academics. So for the month of December, I let myself off by letting my kids off. And I’m giving you permission to do the same.
And you know one reason I think you should? Because if you aren’t there yet on the relaxed homeschooling thing, this is a good compromise to experiment.
Guidelines
I would create some guidelines like “no devices until ___” and “You must spend x hours outside” or whatever. You could challenge them to some type of craft-making, maybe gifts for their friends or grandparents. (Pinterest is a great place for ideas.)
It could be a great time for them to learn to bake or make clay ornaments. You could require a certain amount of time devoted to board games or educational videos on YouTube.
Giving them lots of free time encourages creativity (after they get over being “bored” which, by the way, always results in a chore here. 🙂 )
Taking anything off your plate you possibly can help make this season a bit more joyful and doable.
I’m here, hanging in the fight with you. Reply back to this email if you’re feeling me.
(My husband & I at our church’s Christmas party last week. I’ve started wearing wigs, by the way, because I guess menopause is doing her thing and my hair keeps thinning. I am loving the ease and look of them! I’m here for ya if you wanna talk about hair, LOL!)
