Photo source: Microsoft Clipart
Are you a parent, grandparent?
Do you have a child in your life?
Then congratulations, the Holidays just got that much more enjoyable, and complicated, for you! You have probably noticed that times have changed since you were little and oblivious to the behind-the-scenes work of making the Holidays work, and plus you’re an adult now on the “other end.” That is why we have created The Holiday Survival Institute for Parents! The HSIP is pleased to announce its 2013 Course Schedule!
- Elf on the Shelf Learn about the History of Elf on the Shelf and how to answer questions from your kids like, “Mommy, why there was no Elf on the Shelf when you were little?” and “My friend doesn’t have an Elf on the Shelf” and “Why can’t I touch him? I want him to sit with me!” Learn about easy antics that your Elf can get into, and how to avoid Elf guilt. Also learn how to explain how your Elf may not do crazy things like other kids’ elves do. Please ask your Elf to attend with you.
- Greeting Card Workshop Explore new trends and technology in exchanging greeting cards, such as e-cards, using your computer to make a card, and ordering cards online. Students will have a greater understanding of card etiquette and explore questions such as, “If somebody sends me a card but I didn’t send them one, do I have to send them one even if it will get there after Christmas?” and “Does a text count?” Students will leave with a greeting card design, distribution list and action plan. Laptop required.
- Gift Giving Action Planning Learn about traditional gift giving in American society and expectations related to giving gifts to your childrens’ friends, teachers, plus questions you may never have clarified regarding mail carriers, newspaper delivery persons (if you still get the newspaper), neighbors, co-workers, and adult friends, and friends’ children. Discussion will focus on monetary value and types of gifts (i.e., “Is food OK?”). Tipping will also be covered. Students will leave with a gift action plan.
- Taking Pictures with Santa Students will receive a list of all the locations, days and times that Santa will appear in the community, along with a list of prices and photo options. Learn strategies for getting a good Santa picture, how to avoid crying and avoiding long lines, and improvising. Questions answered include, “What if my kid won’t sit on his lap?” and “How important is it for us to have a Santa picture really?”
- Preserving the Magic This course will teach students how to tell their story of Santa and plan annual traditions. How DOES the sleigh fly? How ARE the mall Santas connected to the North Pole Santa? Students will also learn strategies for dealing with your child’s doubt about Christmas magic. They will feel empowered to address situations when your child comes home saying, “Suzy’s mom told her that Santa isn’t real.” Students will philosophically explore questions related to truth and magic, and the appropriate age or moment to reveal and contextualize truths.
Please visit the Institute to learn more about these and other course offerings which include: Being Merry AND Organized (Pre-requisites: Greeting Card and Gift Giving Workshops); Toy Assembly 101; Having an Environmentally Friendly Christmas; Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Baking; and The Christmas Family Photo.
Tuition is totally free, but chocolate and bottles of wine are much appreciated.
Date and time to be determined – since this is a very busy time of year for our course counselors! TRANSLATION: Don’t hold your breath for this!
About Mary Beth Cox