Family Routine

Q: I have two children ages 7 and 5. We will be going to my mother's house in another state for Christmas. I am concerned that the routine that I have worked so hard in establishing with the children will be thrown out the window and I will have a hard time getting them back on schedule when we return in two weeks. How can I prevent this?

A: Expect to alter your routine during the Christmas holidays. However, you can keep some things close to your current schedule. Before going you can discuss with her some of your expectations about maintaining your routine. Then both of you have an idea of what would be practical. Discuss with your children that this is a special time. Explain that some things will be different during this visit with grandma. Tell them, though, you expect things will be back on the schedule when you return home. Keep some basic things on your home schedule such as bedtime and meals. It will not take long for you to return to your normal routine when you return. Enjoy the holidays with your family.

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