A Therapist's Advice on Christmas Traditions

Do you have an "Elf on the Shelf"? Do you create elaborate scenes involving this Elf? Do you purchase only gifts that your children can wear, need, want or read? Do you use Santa as incentive for your children to behave?
So what's "right"?

'Tis the season for everyone to give you their opinion. After reading several blogs on the above topics, I felt compelled to write this blog. Last night, I read a blog outlining why Elf on the Shelf is a waste of time and way too much effort to add to the already busy schedule of a Mother. This blog described searching Pinterest for elaborate scene ideas, but did not mention the option to simply move the Elf from one spot to the next. I find that many of these blogs and articles have a judgmental undertone, and it bothers me. They may not come out and say that if you choose the opposite of what they suggest, you are wrong, but it is implied. They seem to be long rebuttals to some one sided debate. Well, you are in luck, I am here to tell you what to do....

Please do what you decide is best for you and your family!

Ignore these blogs and their judgmental overtones. Does it bring you and your children joy when you set up elaborate scenes for your Elf? Then do it! Do you despise that Elf and the idea of him "watching" your kids? Don't get one! Do you want your children to get 5 gifts? Then give them 5 gifts. Do you want a Christmas tree surrounded by many gifts? Then do it! 

Every family is different, every child is different, and everyone has different means to make things happen. Please know that if you do what you think is best, and you do what you are able to do, it is okay, and it is enough. Our kids need our love and attention more than they need anything else. During this holiday season, try to be present. Try to teach your kids to be present and enjoy each moment as it comes. Kids only get to be kids once, and although the season is still enjoyable as an adult, the magic seems to dwindle each year you get older. Hold on to these fleeting moments!