Initial Conversations to Plan a Great Holiday Season
during tough economic times

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Problems to discuss can be decorating, visitors, special school and church events, presents and other demands of the holiday season. Scheduling these things on a family calendar helps the family decide which regular duties and chores need to be lightened.

It is important to set expectations that are realistic. Probably every family member has expectations that are unrealistic in light of time and money available. Working as a family, it is important to bring expectations down to what is truly possible. Find out what is most important to each family member. Then, get creative to see how each person's first priority can be put into the holiday schedule.

It is wise to make the family a top priority during the busy holiday season. For example, if a family has its activities scheduled in advance, an unattractive invitation can be turned down easily. "We would love to come, but our family is already scheduled for that night." is understandable. On the other hand, each late invitation can be decided upon by a family meeting. Perhaps the neighbor's party can fit in or replace something less enjoyable on the family schedule.

Money is tight, especially during this horrible economy. The family can plan a holiday that costs half or one-fourth what it would cost if unplanned. The family can set limits on presents before family members begin to expect expensive items. Kids can learn about budgets by everyone working together on being thrifty. Families can discuss that there is less money for presents and that the family will have to decide on fun activities that cost very little or nothing. Instead of expensive things, inexpensive baking and fun game nights can be planned.