Friday, November 18, 2011

How to Create a Flawless and Fun Thanksgiving with Kids



Thanksgiving can be a crazy holiday for families-it is the busiest travel weekend of the year and lets be honest....it's the least favorite "kid" holiday.  So, how do you make it fun for everyone and yet still be able to have a glass of wine and relax or catch that football game?  Be prepared!  Here's how...

1.  Choose your battles.  If you normally cater to your picky eater, it might not be a good idea to pick a formal sit down holiday dinner (with the entire family watching) to be the first time you make your child eat those green beans!  You may want to bring a food they like with you or check out the menu before sitting down to the table.  (This is why giving into the picky eater on a daily basis can put you into tough situations!)

2.   Bring toys or games! If you are traveling with your family this holiday season, expect to wait in traffic (or airports) and have some back up plans such as cool new iphone games or some different books or toys that your child hasn't seen in a long time!  Another great idea is to have your children pack their own favorite toys in a special book bag!

3.  Involve the children in dinner preparation.  Children love to feel involved so let them make place cards or set the table.  Another great idea?  Make the good 'ol turkey handprint by tracing their hand as a centerpiece!
4.  Expect problems.  I know I said 'flawless' but lets face it...that's impossible!  If your trying to PLEASE your family by making an elaborate dinner from that fancy cookbook...guess what?  Your toddler (or young kids) will probably not appreciate it and instead be acting out all day because you aren't around.  So, if you would like to make an awesome dinner from scratch, ask a babysitter or family member to help you with the kids!  Also, try to make naptimes as close to their normal schedule as possible and expect that things won't be perfect! 

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