It's that time of year when there seems to be a party on every week, and while it's great when you're child-free, things get a little complicated when you have to organise kids first.
It's that time of year when there seems to be a party on every week, and while it's great when you're child-free, things get a little complicated when you have to organise kids first.
However, it doesn’t have to be too difficult and with some of our tips here, you can juggle everything while having a great time too!
Be organised – The truth is you will not be able to go to everything so sit down with your partner and plan for the month ahead. Who needs to go where and is it a case that you can go alone, or do you need to go as a couple? Once you sort that out consider getting a babysitter or is there an opportunity to send the kids to your parents or your partner's parents for a night? Once you have considered your options get ahead and book the babysitter or plan for overnight stays with family by telling the kids and getting their bags ready if needed. Yippee!
Pick and choose your events carefully - There is no point in you wasting a good babysitter or a night off by going to a party you really couldn’t be bothered to attend. Be clinical about this because as parents we are too busy, and the cost is excessive when going out so plan and attend what you feel is a must. Don’t feel bad for not going unless it is something you really want to do.
Consider having something at home – So, you may not be able to afford a babysitter and some parents don’t have the bonus of having family close by to mind the kids so be creative and plan your own party. Ok, this will mean the kids are in the house but invite a select few people and consider your kids' ages too.
Older kids will be able to entertain themselves and select a room that they can have their own party. Get crackers, movies, games and food to keep the kids happy and let the guests bring their kids too. For younger kids or babies this may not be possible, so choose a few people to attend and keep the volume down. Take turns checking on the kids and try tire out your kids earlier in the day so they are wrecked by the time the party kicks off.
Be lazy if you need to be – All these parties will mean getting up early with the kids with very little sleep but be lazy and don’t feel pressured to do anything. Get a takeaway in the evening and have a movie day with the kids which can be great fun. Share the cleaning up for the day and work together as a family.
Enjoy every moment – The truth is, Christmas parties are just at this time of year and you may be tired after the party or you may find it hard juggling, but it is good fun. The kids will be in good spirits as parents are happier with the regular social occasions and seeing people.
Have fun!
Emma Hayes is a thirty-something mum of two girls aged 16 and 10, planting her right into the teenage and tween-age years! Follow her on Twitter at @EmmaHayes25.