THE PULSE

While we’d all like our Christmas morning to be as magical as a movie, any parent can tell you that the big excitement of Christmas day can also lead to big meltdowns. It’s okay for kids to have and express tough feelings and Christmas is a great opportunity to work with them on how to express them—but there are also a few things we can do to make the big day easier for everyone in the family. Here are three tips.

1. Fuel them for success

It’s hard to keep kids from going straight to the tree as soon as they wake up, but hungry kids are cranky kids. Prep your breakfast the night before so as soon as the kiddos race to the tree, you pop breakfast in the oven. That way, it’s ready as soon as you’re done. Or, if your kids are a little older, start a tradition of sharing breakfast together before any presents are opened so you can enjoy more time as a family.

If you’re thinking the candy in their stockings is basically breakfast, think again—candy and cookies will lead to an inevitable sugar crash. There will be plenty of sweets today, so consider serving up a savory favorite like a breakfast casserole. And keep an eye on how much sugar your kids are eating at a time. Slow and steady on the sugar wins the holiday race.

2. Put gratitude at the forefront

Help your child savor the moment by calling attention to gratitude throughout your morning. TBH, gratitude is something important to work on with your kids every day—and Christmas is as good a day as any to start a new tradition. Some families go around the table at dinner and talk about their “roses and thorns” – something that you’re grateful for (roses) and something that’s challenging you (thorns). Other parents ask their kids at bedtime to try and remember three things that delighted them that day. (These are great practices for parents, too) During Christmas breakfast, it can be fun to ask the family what they’ve enjoyed about Christmas so far (looking at lights, Christmas music, decorating the tree, baking together) and what they’re still excited for (opening presents, watching a Christmas movie, having dinner with family).

3. Practice patience

This one goes for parents AND kids. Remember that today is really exciting for your little ones and that they will need some extra patience today. To help your kids practice their patience, slow down the gift exchange by having each person (kids and adults) take turns opening a gift at a time. This gives the kiddos more time to appreciate their gifts and ensures they’ll have a moment to thank the gift-giver. It’s a great way to give gratitude and good manners a fighting chance.