Christmas Nightmares and Their Cures

Visions of screaming toddlers prancing in your head in place of sugar plums? Here are a few nightmares of Christmas you may be having this year—and a quick fix for each.

The Last-Minute Holiday Party at School

You’ve got your shopping done, your budget barely met, and suddenly it’s announced that your child’s class is having a party. Don’t panic; there are plenty of things you can do. If a gift exchange is required, simply re-gift a gently used toy or book that your child hasn’t found much interest in—or toss a few unused art supplies you have laying around into a cute cup. For treats, bake something quick and easy; if your school doesn’t allow homemade treats, buy a quick bag of Santa chocolates for a buck or two.

The Last Minute Work Party

Didn’t they say they weren’t going to do one this year? Apparently corporate forgot! No worries; just double the recipe of one of the dishes you’re making for Christmas and bring half with you. For a gift exchange, grab a few books, unused soaps, or other new items you’ve got lying around for a quick gift basket—or use one of those free gift cards you got with a special purchase.

The Crabapple MIL

If you can avoid her, do it; it will save you both some unneeded grief. But if you absolutely must make an appearance, smile, nod, and let everything in one ear and out the other like you normally do. Sidestep all of her jabs (or those from any other in-law), pretend you have to pee or change the baby as much as possible, and remember that this, too, shall pass.

The Tantrum-Throwing Toddler

Make sure she’s well-fed, well-rested, and a favorite toy is within reach at all times. If none of these work, use her as an excuse to escape from the nightmare above!

The Ungrateful Gift Recipient

If your child greets Aunt Elise’s Barbie with “But I hate dolls!” there’s not much you can do to undo what was said. Try to gloss it over as much as possible, thanking the heartbroken aunt yourself and explaining that little Susie doesn’t have much experience with dolls is all, and point out to Susie how much fun Barbie’s, ah, accessories look (play on anything Susie does like, such as a dog, a purse, whatever that accompanies the toy).

Try to avoid these situations in the first place by explaining to your child beforehand that every gift is meaningful and from a loved one’s good intentions, and that they love your child very much and would be sad if he or she didn’t enjoy their gifts. Remind them to say thank-you no matter what they are given—and if the ungrateful kiddo—such as a niece or nephew—happens to be receiving a gift from you, remember to grin, bear it, and that—yes, again—this, too, shall pass.