The beginning of the winter holiday season has begun, filled with food, family, friends and fun. I’d like to share some thoughts from Kansas State University family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss. She says that as celebrations are planned, it is important to consider the mental and financial stresses of the holiday season.

“One way to approach holidays is managing our time, energy and money,” Kiss said. “Things to think about are what’s important to us as individuals and what is it that our family most enjoys about the holidays and really focus on those things, which for many families, is being together.” 

Kiss said food is a large part of the holiday budget, including traditional meals such as turkey on Thanksgiving as well as serving food during parties or open houses, baking, and eating out.

Kiss added that holiday decorations – such as plates, napkins and wrapping paper – are important to include in the budget, but urges consumers to be cautious of the environmental impact of excessive paper products. 

“I think we sometimes have unrealistic expectations of the holidays, and that can not only be stressful from a financial standpoint, but a mental standpoint as well,” Kiss said.

She adds: “The perfectionism and high standards that we place on ourselves, especially when it comes to food, can be draining. It is more about being together and less about all of the decorations and all of those things being perfect.”

Kiss said there is a need to keep a normal routine between celebrations, especially for children.

“This is a lot of stimulation for children, and they may be eating differently – maybe more sweets than usual – so keeping mealtimes at a regular time and keeping bedtime fairly regular is important,” Kiss said. “Also consider how much they can handle in terms of events and stimulation, what they’re interested in doing or what they most enjoy.”

Board games and outdoor activities don’t cost a lot of money, she said.

Kiss also recommends making lists for all gifts and browsing before purchasing to be able to take advantage of good prices and not overspending or not following a plan.

“Research has reported that more than half of shoppers have already started gift shopping so they can recognize the deals, and so they spread expenses out a little bit in their budget,” Kiss said.

Kiss suggests paying more upfront and financing less to minimize debt in January; pay cash when available. Keeping receipts and minimizing credit card use can help shoppers stick to a budget.

“Make the holidays what you want the holidays to be and be comfortable with what you decide. Try and keep that stress level – both mentally and financially – as low as possible,” Kiss said.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.