Email to a Friend

Finding Peace this Season

 By Cindy Foster, General Manager, AdventurePlex

 Peace on earth would be wonderful, but let’s start with adding some peace and quiet to our own hectic holiday schedules. During this time of year, many families find themselves with more activities, events and travel plans on their plate. These things might be fun, but they can also be stressful, especially for parents. To make this holiday season a happy and peaceful one, look for healthy ways to manage your stress and provide quality programming for your children to enjoy.

The reality of the holidays, much like life, is that real people and families need to set reasonable expectations in order to have a smooth ride through the holiday season. Do your best to stick to your regular family routine. Changing your schedule to fit in holiday events and travel can be tough on you and your kids, so try to keep things as normal as possible. There are plenty of programs in our community offering fun, supervised activities for your child while you head to the mall to cross items off a wish list or stay at home to prepare table settings for party guests.

Families can also minimize stress by talking about schedules. Gather round the table to explain each day’s activities to your children and let them know what you expect from them. Together, choose activities that you really want to do and will enjoy the most, then say “no thanks” to the extra activities. If possible, try to keep mealtimes and bedtimes the same during the holidays. You can always TiVo those holiday specials that run late.

When it comes to finances, be realistic. Even young children can learn how to budget for gifts. Encourage kids to get creative with a paintbrush or some construction paper. Making unique presents for family members instead of buying them can save money. Receiving a thoughtful gift from a child can be a memorable holiday moment, too.

It is equally important to take time to relax this holiday season. Go for a walk with your family and enjoy the holiday decorations in your neighborhood. You can also join your kids for fun family exercise. Activities such as ice-skating or rock wall climbing can help wind down the kids for bedtime. Planning quiet time for your self is also important. Read a book, take a bubble bath or just sit down and listen to your favorite music.

During winter break, it can be difficult to find ways to occupy the kids during the day. Below are a few suggestions for parents:

Winter AdventureCamp at AdventurePlex: Dec. 21 – 24 and Dec. 28 –31

This is a perfect solution for working parents and allows for an accredited camp and staff to interact with your child with energy, patience and careful oversight.

www.AdventurePlex.org

New Year’s Eve Slumber Party Sleepover at AdventurePlex: Dec. 31 – Jan 1

You can drop off your child on December 31 and pick him or her up on January 1. This will allow you a “night on the town” to celebrate and ring in the New Year while assuring that your child is in a safe and fun environment enjoying dinner, a movie, cooperative games and quality care.

www.AdventurePlex.org

Ice-skating at Seaside Ice: November 11, 2009 to January 18, 2010

Take the family ice-skating at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach.

www.SeasideIce.com