If you ask your December baby how they feel about their birthday overlapping with the holiday season, they might tell you that they got the short end of the stick. As much as we understand how it can feel like their birthday is overshadowed by tinsel and wrapping paper, that’s no way to celebrate your birthday! We’ve gathered a few tips and tricks to help you spread the magic of your little one’s birthday, while not spreading yourself too thin during this expensive time of year.
Separate the Celebrations
It can be challenging to keep the magic of the holiday spirit alive while also trying not to overshadow your little one’s birthday. Holiday fatigue is real, friends. But, that doesn’t mean your kiddo can’t have an incredible day that’s all about celebrating them. Even if your kiddo’s birthday does not fall exactly on a holiday, try to create some buffer room between their celebrations and your holiday plans. This way, all of your friends, family and loved ones can be sure to attend without conflicts like white elephant gift exchanges and office holiday parties!
Another idea is to split their birthday in half—make sure to tell your kiddo that they get two birthday celebrations when you pitch this idea to them! For the December babes, have a smaller gathering with family members, especially if everyone’s in town anyways for the holidays. Reserve a celebration with their friends to happen in January to give everyone a chance to get back into the swing of things after the new year. December can feel like crunch time for a lot of families, and the holiday season can just be difficult for some in general. By giving everyone an extra week or so to catch their breath after the holidays, your kiddo will be sure to have a day that is only about celebrating them!
Start Birthday Traditions to Keep Things Special
As extravagant as that sounds, creating a yearly tradition to celebrate your kiddo’s birthday at home is something that doesn’t have to break the bank. Think about something simple like making your kiddo number-shaped pancakes to celebrate their age. Or, you can decorate a special area or chair in your home that is specifically designed for the birthday guest of honor. Your little one will cherish memories like this for much longer than any gift that they are asking for at the top of their wishlist. Especially as they get older, they will appreciate these moments of birthday magic that you have created for them amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Don’t Use the Holiday Wrapping Paper
This might sound like a simple one, but seriously—don’t wrap birthday gifts in holiday wrapping paper. It doesn’t mean that you necessarily have to buy more presents to make up for the overlapping celebrations. Birthdays as a kid are a magical time because you’re allowed to have a day that is completely about yourself! Your little ones will cherish the things that feel personal and special to them. While gifts are gifts and your kiddos will be grateful to receive them, it can be tough to feel special when the celebration is lumped together with another holiday.
