Stop and Smell the Candy Canes

The holidays are a magical mix of joy, chaos, and a never-ending to-do list. Between wrapping presents, baking cookies, and keeping everyone’s schedules straight, it’s easy to feel like you’re just trying to survive until school starts again.

Here’s a little reminder: the best gift you can give your kids this holiday season isn’t wrapped—it’s you. I know that sounds impossibly sentimental when you’re up to your elbows in gift wrap and gingerbread. But stay with me. Take just five minutes for each of your kids.

• Five minutes to put your phone down.

  
  

• Five minutes to tune out the holiday noise.

  
  

• Five minutes to really listen.

Sit with your little one and let them tell you about their latest art project. Ask your teenager how their day went (and then actually wait for the answer). Laugh about something silly. Just be there.

It’s easy to make excuses, especially as kids get older:

• They’re on their phone, so I might as well check mine.

  
  

• They’d rather hang out with their friends than talk to me.

Trust me, I get it. But here’s the thing: every time we glance at our phone during a conversation, we’re sending a message—this is more important than you. That’s a tough realization, but it’s also an empowering one. Why? Because it means we have the power to change it.

No, I’m not saying you need to ditch your phone or swear off social media forever. (Let’s be real—scrolling through IG is addictive for parents too.) Taking intentional “face-only” time with your kids can make a bigger impact than you might think. Sometimes I put my phone in a drawer and say out loud, “Everyone I want to talk to is right here.” 

Think of those five minutes as an investment. Every time you stop and give your full attention, you’re telling your kids: You matter. I see you. I’m here for you. For younger kids, that connection builds trust. For older ones, it lays the groundwork for them to open up when they really need you.

So, amidst the craziness of the season, take a deep breath. You’ve got this. Five minutes of your undivided attention can create magic that no amount of wrapping paper can compete with.

Stop. Smell the candy canes. And savor the sweetest moments this season has to offer. 🎄

Got a Minute?

It’s very powerful to say “You have my full attention” to children. Then whatever your kids say, engage. Whether it’s about their dream last night, what they want to unwrap, or who would win in a fight between Grogu and Baby Groot, lean into the conversation and show that what they have to say is important.

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MicroStep Method for the Overwhelmed Parent: Small Moments, Big Impact.