First Christmas as a single parent - help needed

POPPYOSCAR

Would it not be better to make things as 'normal' as possible.

With all the changes they been through perhaps they might need the usual routine?

jem132

Hi after my ex went we just kept xmas the same except they spend from lunchtime with there dad so we have a special breakfast with bucks fizz .you really need to think about the time you don't have the kids this is the time I hated the most going to bed without my boys now 5 years and a new dh later I enjoy my time off we usually spend the time with pals but this year one of the boys has stopped going to his dad's he hates example new girlfriend and she's not nice to him plus dad lyingto him and him finding out ds8 can't forgive been lyd to so we are going to pack the car up with some treats and take the dog to the beach. I am looking forward to it good luck and don't worry the kids will be fine it you that will struggle so try and solve the problem before it arises xxxx

valk_scot

I would make two suggestions...firstly find out if they're going to be eating a huge Christmas dinner in the evening and secondly make some plans for yourself and your mother for the evening...go out yourself for a drink with other friends or family, or get a bottle of bubbly and DVD if there's nothing on the telly you want to watch. Or ask some friends round, there's always folk at a bit of a loose end on Christmas Day after the family stuff I find. We quite often have people round for nothing more exotic than beer and cheese and crackers in the evening.

As to the kids, ask them. They're going to have enough new things happening in the evening I would think so the old familiar routine during the day would probably work best. As for food it might be the time for a more sophisticated lunch rather than five courses of turkey etc, something girly and elegant rather than five stonking great courses of turkey etc.

daska

I'd agree, what's important is that the children feel comfortable so don't change things for the sake of change or to ameliorate your personal feelings. With one exception! At 11 and 13 your children are more than capable of joining in with choosing what you're going to do/eat, planning how and helping with the preparation. You'll get a good feel for what they want by asking what they suggest.

isitenough

I'd agree with the above posters. Ask them what they think.

Maybe make plans for the evening with your Mum instead. Maybe hire a DVD (the day before obviously!) and enjoy a glass of wine & some chocs? Or just plan what you'll watch on the telly. Don't look at it as a negative thing, your kids will hopefully be having a good time with their Dad.