It may be challenging but there are still ways to celebrate the holiday season. With planning and finding creative ways to continue family traditions, you can still celebrate even if you may not be allowed to gather together with as many loved ones as you would do in normal times.
Here are some tips on how to celebrate this holiday season with your beloved family safely:
1) Discuss with family membersHolidays are a time to hang out with the loved ones. Encourage your family, especially children to share their thoughts and feelings. If year-end vacation plans need to be changed, invite them to discuss and together make a plan on how all of you will celebrate it.
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Implement safe travel protocols – alwaysIf you have to travel or celebrate with family or friends outside your home, make sure to always implement the Covid-19 health and safety protocol and traveling safety regulations to ensure your and your family’s safety.
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Focus on what you can be done and create new ideasFocus on the traditions that your family can continue to do, rather than focusing on what cannot be done this year.
• If your extended family usually gets together and eats together, plan a meal together virtually or have everyone prepare the same meals, or just one special or favourite dish. Have a Zoom get together or other online medias to share your experiences.
• Arrange virtual time to decorate or light up your Christmas tree at the same time.
• Hold several family competitions, such as a photo contest for the Christmas decorations, a family photo or a short video competition and also ask everyone to nominate the favourite winner online.
• Spread happiness to one other. Send a package of your favourite holiday snack or a small gift package and open it together virtually. It doesn’t have to be a bulky or expensive package, but it can show each other that we care.
• Document what you and your family did. Keep a journal, photo or video to document this year’s excitement and experiences. Documenting how your 2020 went will be a special one when everything gets back to normal as we know it. Look back to this time and see how it has brought the best in everyone.
For many people, the holiday season and large family gatherings are sometimes accompanied by a certain amount of stress. This time may be an opportunity to be more relaxed. Make this holiday season special and stay connected to one another, despite the challenges of the pandemic.
Keep the spirit alive and brighten up the holiday season with your family. Keep safe and stay happy!
Photo source: Freepik