The holidays can be a jam-packed time of year! With so much going on it can make fitting everything in hard to do. Amidst the flurry of activities, gatherings, and seasonal cheer, creating a family calendar for the month can be incredibly helpful, ensuring that you prioritize and savor the moments that matter most.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a family calendar for December! By creating a family calendar for the month, you can make sure to fit in the things that really matter!
There is also something to be said for writing things down. Knowing you want to go drive around and look at Christmas lights is one thing. Simply saying you will do it on this specific day means you are more likely to go!
For those who live in the Sioux Falls Area, make sure to check out our Calendar for a full list of holiday events! Head on over to our Holiday Headquarters for more Christmas content!
1. Gather the Troops:
Gather the family together for a planning session. Encourage everyone to share their ideas and must-do activities for the holiday season. Include your younger kiddos, too!
2. Map Out Key Dates and Events:
Start by marking important dates on your calendar, such as school events, work commitments, or pre-planned gatherings. These serve as anchor points to work around when scheduling your festive activities.
3. Prioritize Traditions and Special Activities:
Discuss and decide on the traditions and activities that hold special significance for your family. Whether it’s baking cookies (maybe these fun cake mix cookies!), visiting a holiday market, or watching a beloved Christmas movie, prioritize these cherished moments on specific dates.
4. Balance and Flexibility:
Maintain a balance between scheduled activities and open spaces for spontaneity. Allow room for flexibility to accommodate unexpected opportunities or simply to relax and unwind during the busy holiday season.
5. Create Theme Days or Weeks:
Consider dedicating certain days or weeks to particular themes or activities. For instance, have a ‘Cookie Baking Week’ where each day focuses on a different cookie recipe, or a ‘DIY Decoration Day’ for crafting ornaments and wreaths.
6. Incorporate Acts of Kindness:
Integrate acts of kindness and giving back into your calendar. Schedule a day for volunteering at a local shelter, donating toys to a charity drive, or writing holiday cards for friends and family. Check out this article about giving back with help from the Helpline Center!
7. Reflect and Adapt:
Regularly revisit the calendar as December progresses. Reflect on what’s been accomplished and adjust plans if needed. Embrace the opportunity to add new ideas or reschedule activities if need be! Remember, the holidays are meant to be about love and family!
8. Embrace the Joy of Anticipation:
Use the calendar as a source of excitement and anticipation. Involve the family in the preparation and anticipation of upcoming events!
By creating a family calendar tailored to your traditions and family, you take away the stress of creating the perfect holiday month and instead get to enjoy it!
