Christmas. Snuck up on you again did it, dad? Let’s smash through this well-worn stereotype!
Sometimes the best-laid plans go astray, especially when you’ve got a house full of family, a tree that’s more tinsel than timber, and a turkey or ham eyeing you from the kitchen. But the days of Clark Griswold are well behind us, and Christmas isn’t just about devouring lunch before slipping into a food coma while the rest of the clan does the heavy lifting – so here are some surefire tips to keep the day merry and bright (and keep you from turning into the Grinch).
Time to roll up the sleeves and lead the festive cheer, and make sure it’s a team effort all around.
Keep your cool!
When the unexpected happens (and it will), take a deep breath.
Whether it’s burnt spuds or a toppled tree, remember it’s the festive spirit that counts – not perfection. Everyone’s here for a good time, not a perfect time. (And if you need to remind your partner of that, go for some proper sympathy. “Relax!” and “Calm down…” usually feels patronising in the heat of the moment.)
The great Christmas distraction
A little distraction goes a long way.
Got a crisis in the kitchen? Deploy the secret weapon: entertainment. Whether it’s a quick game, a silly dance, or an impromptu Christmas quiz, a bit of fun can turn frowns upside down while you fix the mishap. Get the family started on something, and then disappear into the kitchen! (We dig these ideas, if you need a starter.)
Tech to the rescue
All dads know this one: Embrace technology.
If the Christmas lights decide to retire early or the playlist isn’t playing ball, remember that a quick YouTube tutorial can save the day. Plus, showing off your tech skills might just earn you some cool dad points.
Backup plan bonanza
Always have a Plan B.
Whether it’s extra batteries for toys or a spare set of fairy lights, having backups can be a lifesaver. And if the lunch prep has taken a turn for the worse, remember, there’s no shame in a last-minute pizza order.
Many hands…
Enlist your little helpers.
Now here I’ll admit: I struggle with this one. When you need to get the place clean, it’s often easier to just do it yourself than to include kids who might (probably will?) spend the whole time complaining and making a halfarsed effort – but it’s important to get them involved! And remember the theme of this guide: patience and calm. If you can keep your cool, you’ll be turning a chore into an adventure and a valuable teaching moment.
Decorating, table setting, or even helping with simple cooking tasks – it helps them feel involved and takes a bit off your plate too.
Embrace the imperfect
Perfection is overrated, and usually impossible anyway!
So the gingerbread house looks like it’s barely survived a cyclone, and the wrapping paper is more duct tape than paper – but it’s the quirks that make Christmas memorable. Embrace the chaos; it’s part of the charm!
Take Five for Yourself
Remember to breathe.
In the whirlwind of festivities, take a moment for yourself – and make sure your partner gets one too. A quick cuppa or a sneaky mince pie in peace can recharge your batteries.
At the end of the day, it’s all about creating happy memories, not stressing over the small stuff. Keep it light, have a laugh, and enjoy the time with your loved ones. That’s what Christmas is all about, dad! 🎄👍🏼
Leave a Reply