Family Fun
Plan an Easy Holiday Gathering
Posted on December 12th, 2011
Take the stress and strain out of holiday planning and you’re left with family fun and the creation of beautiful memories. This December make a commitment to put the joy back in your holiday events. With a little thought and some help from the kids, party planning can be as enjoyable as the party itself. Here’s how to start:
Involve the Kids
Whether you’re parenting toddlers or teens, this year get the kids involved in your party planning. Little ones can help collect pine cones, sticks and winter berries for a natural and elegant table setting. Little hands are also eager to decorate cookies and make place cards or home made wrapping paper (use plain brown paper bags). Older kids can roll and cut out sugar cookies, wrap presents and set the table. Create a party planning to-do list with checks next to items that can be handled by the kids.
Push the Potluck
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends and family are eager to participate in a party. This year, take on snacks and the entrée, but ask guests to bring sides and dessert. This will take a big chunk out of your planning action items and guarantee variety at the dinner table. Extra points: encourage each guest to tell the story of their dish – why they were inspired to buy it or make it.
Focus on Fun
If family politics start to bubble up, remember the purpose of holiday gatherings: fun. Give the day or evening some structure with planned entertainment. Gather everyone for an all-ages game of charades or have the kids put on a show – each one can play an instrument they’ve been studying or recite a poem or demonstrate some martial arts or break dancing moves – anything to stop the debate about current events and start the laughing.
