Ann Pleshette Murphy » holidays

Tightening your belt this holiday season, without the guilt

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:01:02 +0000

In the present economy, satisfying all the desires on your child’s wish list may be a challenge. But lose the guilt if you need to cut back this year — the best gift you can give your child is a trove of holiday memories with you, memories that don’t include anxiety about your family finances. In this video, I’ll tell you why tightening your belt during the holidays is not only possible but may have a silver lining when it comes to the message you’re sending your children.

Holiday road trips made easier

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:37:46 +0000

Santa and his reindeer might soar over rooftops as they travel this holiday season, but the vast majority of us will be buckling up and hitting the road to get to Grandma’s.While your fantasy drive might include well-behaved children singing carols in the backseat, car trips with the kids can be a tad, well, bumpy. A little preparation, however, goes a long way when it comes to arriving healthy and happy. Watch here for my tips about car safety and here to learn how you can keep kids entertained during the drive.

Home for the holidays with a picky eater

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:37:44 +0000

Ah, the holidays. A time for celebration, festivities with loved ones, beautiful decorations…and trying to convince your child to eat alien foods in front of an audience of judgmental family members. Parenting a finicky eater this time of year can be especially challenging, but there are ways to make your family’s food struggle a little easier to digest. Click here for my advice.

5 stress-busting tips for the holidays

admin — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:34:26 +0000

One of the best (and free!) gifts we can give our kids this holiday season is to be cheerful, relaxed parents. Put these tips on your list of to dos — and definitely check it twice.

· Don’t shop ‘til you drop. Try to hit the stores in off-peak hours — early morning or late afternoon.

· Don’t over-eat or drink too much

· Keep up your exercise routine, if you have one. Or take an invigorating walk with your dog or with a baby in a stroller.

· After a hectic day of baking, shopping, or decorating, treat yourself to a soothing bubble bath or stop by your favorite coffee shop for a hot cocoa – made by someone else.

· Spring for a sitter and take an afternoon off. Two hours at the movies isn’t going to compromise your holiday to-dos…it might even boost your spirits and energy.

Remember, if you’re stressed and exhausted, you’re not going to be able to care for anyone else.