Happy families
Friday 18 December 2009
The holidays mean you end up spending more time with your family than usual. Here are a few tips to keep things running smoothly at home.
Show you can be trusted
Ask them to entrust you with something and then deliver. Whether it's buying a Christmas present for your Nan, or even making Christmas lunch yourself – try not to burn the meat though.
Your parents will probably appreciate the smaller things that you do as well, so don’t promise something you know you won’t be able to deliver.
Let them know you can be trusted with more responsibility. Don’t look at the extra jobs as chores, otherwise you won’t get anywhere. This will show that you’re an adult, and they may also give you more freedom.
Secret presents
If you can’t afford to buy a Christmas gift for your entire family then why don't you suggest a Secret Santa option. Place names in a hat and take turns to pull one out. Then buy a present for the person you get. Keep it secret though - it’ll put a little bit of surprise into your family’s Christmas.
You could even make your own presents too. Knit a scarf or make a book or photo frame. Here's what you'll need to do.
Help round the house
Try to lend a hand with all those time consuming festive chores – decorate the house, hang up the cards or lay the table for Christmas lunch. If you want you could even dust and clean the house for when relatives come round. Your parents will really appreciate the help.
Going out
If you’ve got strict parents then you might find it difficult to see your friends during the holidays – especially since the days are shorter and the weather is unpredictable.
The best thing to do is be completely honest with them. Let them know where you’re going, who you're going with and what time you'll be home. If they decide to let you go, then don’t disrespect them by not coming home when you promised to.
If their answer is still ‘no’ then don’t blow up. This will just make it worse. Be a little bit more persuasive to make sure your points are heard, but don’t yell. Remember, family life isn’t always easy. Sometimes you won’t always get your own way and you may just have to live with it. Always stay positive and remember that it’s not the end of the world. Read some more helpful tips on how to copy with strict parents.
Argue no more
It’s normal for families to argue, especially during busy times of the year like Christmas and New Year. It’s the festive season though, so don’t waste too much time arguing with your siblings over petty things. If you ever find yourself boiling over then give yourself some time out. Go to your room or take a walk. Here are more suggestions on how to handle tiffs with your family.
Try not to bring anyone else into the argument. That’s just like stirring the pot – plus, you don’t want to spoil anyone else’s holidays do you?
If you're old enough to drink, then make sure you don't over do it - especially if things tend to stress you out as it will probably make you feel worse.
Holiday family night
You might not know this, but your parents enjoy spending time with you. Instead of putting all your energy into seeing your mates why don’t you organise something with your parents and siblings? There are loads of things you could do; catch a festive movie on TV or play some board games.
