The Single Parents Guide to Creating Magical Holiday Moments on Your Own Terms
The holidays aren’t all glitter and gold. Like everything that matters, it takes work and proper planning. Here’s how single parents can create magic this festive season.
Fake it till you make it
No, we don’t advise you to do the most for your family this season or get the most expensive gifts; rather, we advise you to hope. Holidays are so full of wonder; be it lighting a menorah or excitement over Father Christmas sightings, the end of the year brings people together.
Indulge in the make-believe this year, get a Christmas tree, decorate, and pick up traditions that seem pointless. After all, isn’t that what holidays are all about?
Be budget-friendly
As the year comes to a close, the theme of extravagance kicks in. The itch to satisfy our desires unfolds, and we have tough decisions to make. As a single parent, it is much harder.
What do we sacrifice for ourselves, and what do we allow our kids? The answer is never quite clear.
This holiday season, do what you can. Shop at sales and get what’s on offer. Most important of all, remember that life continues after Christmas, and whatever remains are the memories.
No peeking
Don’t compare yourself with other families. The human mind is exceptional at noticing details, especially if none of them truly matter. Single parents often fall prey to ‘what if?’ questions.
It is human, but that doesn’t make it healthy. Parenting is not an easy task; the boldness to take your own unique steps is a sign that your kids are going to have a holiday experience that no other child can compare to theirs.
Find your carolers
Whether family or community, embrace the helping hand of a village. In the fast-paced modern world, the concept of community is out of reach. Sure, the digital space is its own village, but does it share our roots?
Whether it’s a religious organization, your family, or a group of family friends. Let you and your family have a community that feels accepting to you.
Invest in the year to come
Single parenthood has its pitfalls. Whether by circumstance or arrangement, one person can’t fulfill the roles of two. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the pressure to go out with a bang is imminent.
New clothes, exclusive dishes, fancy outings. As a single mom or dad, you can’t have it all. Which is why taking a step back and saving up for that new school bag or getting an early payment on school fees will be the best reward of all this holiday season.
There’s nothing as beautiful as a family, and as a single parent, the magic doesn’t divide; it just specializes.
Read the Special Festive Issue
For more, click HERE to join our WhatsApp channel
