Christmas is usually such a mix of people, different styles, generations and needs that it can be really hard for everyone to have a good time. It is possible with a bit of planning and forethought. Consider these three needs:

There are ways to make Christmas really special without all the stress, by following these few simple tips:

1. Entertainment needs. If your guests don’t like games, don’t do them. If some people like TV and some people don’t can you have two rooms so that people can float between them rather than everyone being forced to do the same thing?
2. Food and drink needs. Are you really going to make very active and excited children sit down to a long (albeit super) meal? Why not set them up a little Christmas picnic with all the bits so that they can enjoy their new toys? Often a very mixed group flows better (and with a lot less stress) if people can help themselves to what they need food and drink wise.
3. Rest and downtime needs. Is there a quiet room? Is it OK for people to disappear and get some rest. It’s important that you don’t force people into compulsory fun as that will only breed resentment. Find a way to make it OK for everyone to do what they need to.

Karen and John’s award winning book Time Mastery; Banish Time Management Forever makes a perfect stocking filler for the busy person in your life. Available from Amazon or directly from Monkey Puzzle.