Tips and Tricks for Stress Free Holiday Fun

The holidays are time for family fun, smiles and happiness. It’s time for endless, relaxing days, while you enjoy each other’s company.

However, does this sound too idyllic to you? In your family, do things start to unravel only hours in? Are the children driving you crazy with their incessant whining?

Have all the energy, vibrancy, imagination and oomph been sucked out of you after the first 2 days? Are you ready to hand the children their digital devices???

Here are some tips and ideas to make the holidays enjoyable.

1.     Have structure

• Even though it is holiday time, have a schedule.
• Plan ahead, so that you are not stressed.
• You could plan 2 outing days and 2 days at home.
• Repeat.
• However, do not overschedule activities.
• There should be a balance between relaxation time and physical activities.
• You do not want to end your holidays exhausted!

2.     Let the family speak and listen to each other

• Listen to everyone so that all ideas are considered and evaluated.
• When children are included in the planning, they are made to feel valued and it reinforces the concept that their opinions matter.
• Children normally come up with novel ideas!

3.     Prepare for your outings.

• Depending on where you are going, prepare beforehand.
• Remembering wet wipes, extra water, packed snacks, lunch, sun hats, sunblock, toys, extra clothes, etc. might seem daunting, but you will feel more relaxed if you are well prepared.
• Keep a working list that you update and edit periodically.
• Try to limit travelling time.
• Take a bus or train where possible, as driving can be exhausting and stressful during the holidays.

4.     Count the cost

• By preparing a budget beforehand and working within your budget, you could save money and relieve the stress of possible overspending.
• Depending on where you are going, if you pack lunches or a picnic, you could save on spontaneous purchases as expensive meals at restaurants, juice purchases or even having to buy a new bathing costume can cause a dent in your budget!
• See where you can visit for free, like parks, vineyards, hiking trails and the beach.
• Some places offer free trips or rides for birthdays!
• You could create your own walking tour and scavenger hunt!
• Find some scavenger hunts at –  https://www.wordsense.co.za

5.    Respect the surroundings

• Try to familiarise yourself with the customs of the country and its people.
• Respect the environment and do not litter.
• Try to recycle where possible.
• Do not remove seashells or other natural objects as souvenirs.
• Leave only your footprints, thanks and a smile.

6.    Set boundaries

• Sometimes, it seems that boundaries could be tested and manners forgotten due to a changed holiday environment.
• If rules are kept, everyone should feel happy, safe and secure while having fun.

7.    Take care of yourself

• Take care of your physical, spiritual and mental well being.
• Schedule time-outs to recharge.
• Go for a massage or quiet walk or a run.
• Sleep well.
• Try to maintain healthy eating habits as these easily fly out the window during the holidays.

8.    Have fun!

• Holidays are meant to create wonderful, lasting family memories.
• Enjoy the special times with your loved ones.