Creating memories and traditions

Did you know that it takes 72 muscles to frown, but only 13 to smile! Christmas and the holiday season are a great time to put those smiling muscles to good use as you enjoy the new memories and traditions you are creating with your family.

For kids, the Christmas and holiday season is often the most exciting time of the year – but as adults, the demands can sometimes be quite overlwhelming. There are many ways families can relieve the pressure and make this a fun and enjoyable time for the whole family.

“Fun doesn’t have to cost a fortune and it can be as simple as including the family in planning your Christmas lunch or holiday activities”, says Plunket Clinical Advisor Allison Jamieson.

“Getting the kids involved is one of the best ways to create these everlasting memories. Let them help decorate the Christmas tree or pack the picnic lunch. Whatever you are doing to plan the day, chances are there will be something your children can do which will make them feel so special. You never know, they might just end up being helpful!”

You can get your family involved by:

• making decorations together – any sorts of arts and crafts

• choosing and decorating the Christmas tree as a family

• letting the children prepare their lunches for the next day’s activities

• writing up a holiday calendar of fun activities

• packing down the Christmas tree and decorations (each child could collect a different coloured decoration – making it a game).

Allison also says, “Although it is a busy time of year, it’s really important that families still remember to plan ahead and keep those regular routines in place. It’s a great idea to try and anticipate any possible problems and solutions, especially if you are in unfamiliar environments like friends’ houses, or public events.”

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For more information contact

Nikki Hooper
Plunket External Communications Executive
021 405 842
Nikki.hooper@plunket.org.nz