Christmas with Kids: Why You Need To Start Planning NOW

So it’s the middle of October, and only if you’re uber organized will you be starting to think about Christmas. However, if you’ve got kids, it’s vital for your sanity – and probably theirs – that you start. Here’s why.

It’s Cheaper
Planning ahead will save you money. You have more time to hunt around for good bargains, and will be relaxed enough to make sure you’re buying something of quality that will last. You can also spread the costs over the year if you plan Christmas in advance, whether it’s buying Christmas decorations in the January sales or freezing food in November. If you feel like half the fun of Christmas is in the ‘December rush’, then consider planning out your Christmas in advance and simply saving every month towards December.

It’s Less Stressful
There’s no waking up in the middle of the night on Christmas Eve wondering whether you’ve remembered to get your daughter’s favourite snack, no running around store after store trying to find the right tool for your husband, and there’s no worrying about overspending. Planning ahead means that you won’t have to drag your children around stores kicking and screaming, getting upset and stressed yourself either. I can’t promise that your children won’t have tantrums, but if they do, you can simply take them home again and come back another day. Try shopping online, like on sites like The Discovery Store. Having a plan means not forgetting about something at the last minute and having a minor heart attack because of it.

It’s Fulfilling
Having a plan means that you’re more likely to make that recipe you’ve always wanted to or create that festive table decoration that you’ve said you’ll do every year. You’ll be cool, calm and collected by the time that the day itself rolls around and you’ll be able to enjoy the day with your family, your kids and your friends.

How to Plan
You should begin planning your Christmas as soon as you can. Ideally, you’ll start planning now. First, start with a budget of how much you can spend. Break it down into areas such as food, decoration and presents and how much you’d like to spend in each area. Consider how you can save money in certain areas.

Then, plan the lead up to Christmas. When will you go Christmas shopping? When will you buy food?  Do something Christmassy with the kids? Decorate? Etc, etc.

Sticking to your plan in terms of time and money will ensure that your Christmas is perfect, and your children will love it too.