From explaining Santa to catering for everyone – how to tackle common Christmas dilemmas
WITH places to be and people to see, the festive season can leave us frazzled.
There are endless decisions, from how much to fork out on gifts, to the best place to spend Christmas Day.
Claire Dunwell looks at some of the most common festive dilemmas we face and asks experts for tips on the best ways to tackle them.
Catering for everyone
COOKING at Christmas can be stressful, especially catering for guests with different dietary needs.
Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert says: “You may have veggie or vegan guests but there is no reason why they should miss out on the Christmas feast.
“You could prepare a vegan nut roast and when it comes to sides, nearly all trimmings can be made plant-based.
“Opt for gluten-free flour if people have an intolerance, remove animal fats for cooking and use olive oil.”
Events to ditch
WITH so many festive get-togethers, it can feel impossible to fit everything in.
Life coach Louise Cartwright says it is OK to say no.
She advises: “Say yes to the things that matter to you – the people you really want to spend time with or the obligatory events.
“Where you do have to say no, be honest. Explain that you don’t have the time or energy to be everywhere.
“Putting yourself first is not selfish.”
Preventing bickering
CHRISTMAS means spending time with loved ones, but family overload can lead to tension.
Relate therapist Ammanda Major says: “If there’s family friction, limit the time you spend together.
"Usually, moaning happens because somebody feels they aren’t being listened to.
“If somebody has something negative to say, acknowledge it, but rise above it.
“If you take the bait it will make things much more difficult once Christmas is over.”
Explaining Santa
ONE child believes, the other doesn’t, and you’re stuck in the middle.
Liat Hughes Joshi, author of 5-Minute Parenting Fixes, says: “If an older child no longer believes, explain how kind it would be for them to keep quiet for their younger brother or sister.
“Encourage them by saying how you trust them to keep it to themselves alongside the grown-ups.”
Get kids off devices
THE kids are glued to their smartphones while all Aunt Edna wants to do is play Monopoly.
Compromise is key, according to social media expert Estelle Keeber.
She says: “Set boundaries about when devices are allowed.
"Set time away from devices but remember for the younger generation, social media is their favourite way to communicate.
“Compromise, because they will be excited and want to share this with their friends too.”
The designated driver
IF you’re always the one who ends up driving to every boozy knees-up, then it’s time to insist on some changes, says Louise.
She adds: “Take it in turns and be clear on the rules.
“Do you drink when it’s your family or your work colleagues and vice versa?
“Many arguments happen between couples when the one drinking wants to stay longer and the driver is ready to leave.
“Commit to a mutually agreed leaving time beforehand.
“If you still can’t agree perhaps the best solution is booking taxis or a hotel room.”
Gifts for extended family
BUYING Christmas gifts is an ordeal but consumer expert Kate Hardcastle says: “Putting pressure on yourself to have the perfect Christmas can often cause money headaches into New Year.
“Why not suggest a big day out with family in the New Year instead of buying gifts, or perhaps make a donation to a charity that is close to your family’s heart?
“Buying a gift for the whole family is cheaper than getting individual ones too.
"How about a family ticket to the cinema which everyone can enjoy in January when money is tight?”
Who to spend Christmas with
CHOOSING your Christmas company can be tricky but be honest, says relationship therapist Ammanda.
She adds: “There are so many demands on our time at Christmas, we can feel like we are being run ragged trying to please everyone.
MOST READ IN FABULOUS
“It is OK to share yourself round in a way that is best for you, and don’t feel guilty about it.
“If you’re recently bereaved or divorced and don’t want to be alone, don’t be afraid to ask to join family members or friends.”
- GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]