Surviving the holidays with family can be tricky. Families, although usually well intentioned, can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Add one child or more to this mix and you’re in over your head.

The traveling, cooking, shopping, and family dynamics can be so stressful that they can have you asking yourself if it is worth it. Most of the time the answer is yes, it is worth it. Family is important and if you do have a well-intentioned family then it is worth the hassle.

Tip 1: Travel Light

Easier said than done, but make an effort to bring less than you need. You will be getting gifts and if you are staying with family you will be able to wash your clothes at their house. Borrow toys and car seats from friends or relatives when you arrive. If you are flying plan ahead, friends and relatives are more than happy to lend you extra car seats and toys while you are in town. Traveling with children is hectic enough and having an overwhelming amount of stuff at the airport or even in your car just adds to the chaos.

Tip 2: Communicate With Your Partner

Communicate your expectations and worries with your partner ahead of time. Decide together what has worked in the past and what has been stressful in the past. Get a solid plan in place to avoid the stressors. Be on the same page!

Tip 3: Don’t Over Plan

The holidays are stressful enough and usually filled with enough excitement. Let people come visit you. You traveled to town so it is not your responsibility to visit everyone in town. If your friends and family want to see you, let them come to you. This will allow you to enjoy your time once you arrive instead of traveling an unnecessary amount.

Tip 4: Ignore the Judgment

Yes, we are judged for our parenting choices everywhere we go and somehow our own families take personal offense if we choose to parent different from them. We may think our mothers, grandmothers, and aunts did an amazing job raising their children, but that doesn’t mean we have to do it exactly the same. We make choices based on what we feel is best for our families and we in no way are trying to insult our ancestors. Stay strong and be true to yourself.

Tip 5: Have Fun!

You are visiting family to have fun and enjoy each other. Do not forget this. Ignore the small things and focus on the big picture. The same group of people may never be together again. Enjoy your company.

Happy Holidays!