Chrissy Callahan
Contributing Reporter
Before the influx of gifts and gear, help your kids go through their closets and toy bins to pick items to donate. You’ll make room for new arrivals and model the spirit of giving back — no jolly man in red required.
Instead of one marathon day of visits, consider hosting smaller, themed get-togethers throughout the month. A “cookie and cocoa” night here, a “movie and pajamas” evening there — more quality time, fewer meltdowns (yours included).
Sometimes the best present is time to yourself. Suggest “babysitting IOUs” from family or friends in place of traditional gifts.
You can use the time to wrap presents, finish errands — or just take a nap that doesn’t get interrupted by someone yelling your name.
The secret to surviving the holidays? Delegation — disguised as fun. Kids love having official roles, so let them handle the stamps on cards, help stir cookie batter or play DJ while you decorate. They’ll feel included, and you’ll get to sip your coffee while it’s still hot.
Try these easy, healthy snacks from Little Spoon to keep kids satiated while they help:
Instead of doing the annual “what should I get them?” dance with relatives, share a simple list of ideas your kids are genuinely excited about. It saves time, reduces duplicates, and makes holiday mornings more joyful for everyone.
A thoughtful gift exchange or Secret Santa among adults can save everyone’s wallet and sanity. For friends and teachers, consider homemade gifts — simple treats, handwritten notes or even Little Spoon’s Plates and Smoothies for the families in your life who are always on the go. They’re the definition of practical joy.
Perfection is overrated. Gift bags beat wrapping paper every time. Disposable plates mean you can actually sit and talk after dinner. Store-bought cookie dough? Deliciously efficient.
Little Spoon’s entire ethos is built on this idea: that doing less doesn’t mean caring less — it means you’re prioritizing the right things. (Like time spent together over time spent in the kitchen.)
Put it on the calendar. Literally. Even thirty minutes of alone time — reading, walking or watching your favorite show — can recalibrate your entire week. Think of it as refueling before the next round of chaos.
The holidays don’t have to feel like a race to the finish line. With a few smart shortcuts and a little help from brands like Little Spoon that take “doing it all” off your plate, you can actually reclaim the joy that gets lost in the shuffle.
Because the real holiday magic isn’t about checking every box — it’s about giving yourself (and your family) the gift of time.
I’m a writer at NBC Select who covers various topics, including home, tech, beauty and apparel. I’ve also written for Today.com and others.
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