5 things Christian parents can do to help their children when company is coming for Christmas

Children can find it hard when family and friends come to stay at Christmas - Bethany Mcllrath provides some ideas on how to deal with the issues that arise

One of the cues that Christmas is coming is clearing space for company. Whether your kids are eagerly anticipating the buzz of having family round for a visit or are bemoaning having to share their space for days, you know there will be ups and downs when guests come.

You want the time when you are all gathered together to be special. Most of all, you want the time to be meaningful, pointing your kids to the reason that you are celebrating: Jesus. But in the inevitable highs and lows of visitors coming, how do you keep your family’s focus on Christ?

Recognising and talking about these emotions before guests come sets you up for a sweeter time together celebrating Jesus

1. Recognise the likely lows

The feelings we like to associate with Christmas are joy, hope, peace, and generosity. All of these are fitting for the celebration of Jesus’ birth! But some of the feelings we also experience are jealousy, greed, distraction, disappointment, and overstimulation. Emotions like these can keep us from experiencing the joy of Jesus at Christmas and the same is true for kids.

Recognising and talking about these emotions before guests come sets you up for a sweeter time together celebrating Jesus.

Even if these questions aren’t answered, asking them helps your kids see that you’re aware that having company can be challenging

Some great starter questions to ask kids as you prepare are……