Christmas and Chanukah are filled with stories and rich fantasy for children. Give your children the gift of a guilt-free holiday season. Don't make them responsible for your happiness or entertainment. Children would rather have a holiday with a fun-filled parent than one with lots of presents and a parent who is angry, overwhelmed and resentful. If you will not be with your children on a holiday, call or send a gift or card to make contact with them, then celebrate with them on the next day that you are together.
Most children love celebrating holidays more than once.
If money is tight start buying presents in advance so that the extra expense is spread out over time. Plan ahead how much you will spend and then stick to this amount. Make visiting arrangements with the other parent well in advance, in writing if necessary to avoid any last minute confusion. Consider doing something completely different from previous years. If you are alone this year think about taking a trip or spending time with friends out of town.