Christmas is a magical time filled with family, food, and festivities—but for parents, it can also be a whirlwind of planning, present-wrapping, and keeping kids entertained. Add work stress into the mix, and “relaxing” can feel like a distant dream.
But here’s the good news: with a bit of prep and a healthy dose of realism, you can unwind over the holiday season—even with kids around. Prioritizing downtime isn’t just about enjoying the present moment; it’s an investment in your future success. When you return to work refreshed and recharged, you’ll be better equipped to tackle challenges and perform at your best.
Let’s talk about practical ways to relax, switch off from work, and enjoy Christmas without chasing perfection (because perfect is exhausting, and frankly, not that fun).
1. Switch Off from Work—Properly
Be clear about your finish line:
Decide when you’re officially clocking out for Christmas. Communicate this to colleagues and clients, set an out-of-office reply, and resist the urge to check emails. Even better, delete the work app from your phone temporarily (you can always reinstall it).
Create a mental buffer:
The first day off work can feel like you’re still mentally stuck in meetings. Combat this by scheduling something enjoyable on your first work-free evening—a festive film night with the kids or a takeaway treat. This helps signal to your brain that it’s time to switch gears.
2. Prepping Without the Perfection Trap
Christmas can tempt even the most laid-back parents into Pinterest-worthy pressure. Let’s break free from that.
Plan a few essentials:
Decide what *actually* matters to your family. Is it a special Christmas Eve dinner, a festive breakfast, or a family game night? Focus on a few meaningful traditions and let the rest be optional.
Batch the boring bits:
Wrap presents, prep food, and clean in short bursts rather than trying to do it all in one exhausting session. Turn it into a family activity—kids can decorate gift tags or “help” with wrapping (wonky paper jobs are charming, not failures).
Embrace shortcuts:
Shop-bought desserts, ready-made stuffing, or a takeaway Christmas Eve dinner are all valid choices. No one gets extra points for homemade cranberry sauce unless making it brings you actual joy.
3. Kid-Friendly Relaxation (for You Too!)
Movie marathons and lazy mornings:
Let the kids stay in PJs, pile blankets on the sofa, and watch a festive film marathon while you sip coffee and *breathe*. It’s cozy, low-effort, and everyone’s happy.
Outdoor resets:
Fresh air works wonders for burnt-out parents and stir-crazy kids. Go for a winter walk, visit a local park, or just let them play in the garden while you enjoy a quiet moment with a hot drink.
Toy-free zones:
Create one toy-free, clutter-free space where you can retreat, even for five minutes. A quiet corner with a comfy chair and a blanket can be a sanity-saver.
4. Adjust Expectations—Lower Them Gladly
Forget ‘perfect’ Christmases:
Real life isn’t a Hallmark movie. Kids will get bored, something will break, and you’ll probably burn at least one dish. Laugh it off and remember that ‘perfect’ is just a filter on social media, not real life.
Accept the mess:
Christmas comes with clutter—wrapping paper everywhere, toys underfoot, and forgotten mugs of tea. Let some of it go. Tidy in 10-minute bursts or leave it until you’ve actually got the energy.
Remember what kids truly want:
Kids remember fun moments, not how perfectly you set the table. Singing silly carols, playing a chaotic board game, or making wonky gingerbread houses are the things they’ll treasure.
5. Recharge in Small, Manageable Ways
Take micro-breaks:
Five minutes with a hot drink while the kids play with new toys *is* a break. Use it. Deep breaths, phone-free. You’ve earned it.
Carve out ‘grown-up’ time:
After the kids are in bed, enjoy something just for you—whether it’s a festive drink, a favourite show, or a long bath. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just something that’s yours.
Say ‘no’ without guilt:
If a social invitation feels more stressful than joyful, it’s okay to say no. Protect your energy where you can—your well-being matters too.
6. Involve the Kids—But Keep It Simple
Let them ‘help’:
Kids love being involved, so let them decorate, set the table (even if it’s wonky), or help make simple snacks. It won’t be perfect, but it will be fun—and you’ll have fewer tasks on your list.
Start simple traditions:
Bake cookies from a packet mix, have a hot chocolate bar, or play a Christmas scavenger hunt around the house. Low-effort, high-impact fun.
7. Look After Yourself, Too
Manage expectations—of yourself:
You don’t have to be a magical memory-maker 24/7. Kids need happy, rested parents more than elaborate holiday experiences.
Ask for help:
If you have a partner, divide tasks. If you have family nearby, let them take the kids for a couple of hours while you nap or have a quiet moment.
Rest when you can:
Even short rests add up. If the kids are occupied, give yourself permission to chill—without feeling guilty.
Final Thoughts
Christmas with kids isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection, even when things are chaotic. Prep a few key things, switch off from work, and remember that it’s okay if your house is messy, your plans change, or you need a break.
Embrace the real, imperfect joy of the season—and don’t forget to relax (even if it’s just in five-minute increments). Remember, a well-rested downtime away from work is essential for everyone. You’re not a hero for working through Christmas; you’re simply missing out on valuable rest. You’ve got this.
The Art of Stupidity 