Holiday Peace: Finding Balance Between Festive Fun and Montessori Tranquility
The Holiday Frenzy
As a Montessori teacher, I knew better. But I forgot.
Reflecting on past holiday seasons, I recall the excitement and chaos vividly. There were ballet performances, piano recitals, and school concerts to attend. As a Montessori teacher, I also had my own concerts to organize. This whirlwind of activities, including staff parties, church gatherings, and family reunions, seemed endless.
One morning, this frenzy culminated in a rush to Eaton’s Breakfast with Santa, an event for children of employees at the high-end retail store. Despite the initial excitement, we found ourselves drained from last night’s event, a community Christmas Party where my children took part in a nativity scene.
We soon realized the toll these endless activities were taking on our family.
The Turning Point: Seeking Serenity Amidst the Storm
Post-Breakfast with Santa, it hit us. The kids were cranky, we were frazzled, and the house was anything but merry. It got me thinking: Do we really need this holiday overload? What's the real deal with meeting Santa and yet another Happy Meal? And honestly, another Barbie?
Were these events truly enriching our holiday experience, or merely adding to a sense of commercialized chaos?
Strategies for a Calmer Holiday Season
1. Maintaining Routine: The Anchor of Stability
The holiday preparations disrupts classroom routine with concert rehearsals, craft-making, and cookie parties. Getting back to our usual routine was a game-changer. Bedtimes, mealtimes, you name it – keeping it consistent was like a soothing balm for our frazzled nerves.
2. Engaging in Quiet, Themed Activities
We swapped out some chaos for calm. Think cozy story times, board games by the fireplace, or strolling through a winter wonderland. Visit local bookstores, libraries and parks.
Our family fave? A local garden lit up with festive lights and some outdoor skating. Yes, it’s chilly in Canada, but we love it.
3. Emphasizing the True Essence of the Season
For us, it's about the real spirit of the season. Lighting the Advent wreath, sharing stories of the birth of Christ – that's our jam. It's less about Santa and more about the heart of the holiday. What's your family's special thing? Diwali, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah – they all have their unique magic.
4. Make It About Love, Not Just Presents
Let's treat the holidays like Valentine’s Day – a time to show love and gratitude. Homemade cards, calls to loved ones, simple acts that mean a lot. That’s what it's all about.
5. Cultivating a Gratitude Tree: A Symbol of Thankfulness
Feeling thankful and showing it can be a real stress-buster. We love our Gratitude Tree tradition – it's a heartwarming way to reflect on all the good stuff.
Studies show gratitude reduces anxiety. Thankfulness also improves sleep, much needed during a busy and exhausting month.
6. Chill Out with Some Mindfulness
Bringing in some Montessori magic like the Silence Game works wonders at home too. It’s a neat way to help everyone, kids and adults alike, to just take a breather and find their calm.
Crafting a Joyous and Balanced Holiday Experience
Ultimately, the essence of the holidays lies in creating joyful, meaningful memories centered around family values and traditions. It’s about striking a balance between engaging activities and peaceful moments, ensuring that the holiday spirit is not overshadowed by a hectic schedule.
There’s nothing wrong with cookie-decorating parties, holiday playdates, or even having breakfast with Santa Claus. But too much of a good thing is never good. Embracing simplicity and focusing on what truly matters can lead to a more fulfilling and restful holiday season.
Here's to a holiday filled with joy, peace, and rejuvenation!
Cheers,
Susie