Family Matters: Teacher Gifts & More

Friday, December 17, 2010

Anisa Raoof, GoLocalProv Family Expert

As the kids go on vacation and the holiday that overwhelms everyone's lives looms, here are three ways to navigate the shoals.

Kido Tip 1. Teacher gifts

Teachers are an important part of our children's lives. It's thoughtful to tell them how much you appreciate their time, effort and dedication to your children. Gifts need not be big or extravagant. The familiar saying It is not about how the much the gift costs but

the thought that counts is so true. Depending on your budget, gift cards in any dollar amount to places they frequent like supply stores, local book shops or their favorite coffee shop are always useful. If you can coordinate with other families everyone can contribute to one joint gift card. Make the gift personal by including something handmade like a drawing or baked goods. For more ideas, read Holiday Gift-Giving to Teachers: Notes from the Field by Jill Davidson.

Kido Tip 2. School Vacation Plans

Depending on where you kids attend school vacation may start as early as Monday. This may mean scrambling for childcare, planning day trips, or more time home to play. I find it helpful to child swap with friends when possible or share a baby-sitter to keep childcare costs at a minimum. The Kidoinfo calendar is full of special events for school vacation week. Parents of young kids should be aware that many places including libraries, zoos, and museum have special events for kids throughout this week. Great news, but it also

means that these places may be busier than usual, so plan accordingly. I like "to schedule" some plan-free days allowing the kids unstructured time to play at home, read, build forts, play games and even unplug. Good way for all of us to recharge our batterie for the new year.

Kido Tip 3. Spread Holiday Cheer with Caroling

Last year I partnered with Mike Ritz, WestSide Caroling founder inviting families to participate in their annual caroling event. My family and I had a lovely evening alongside nearly 100 carolers walking and singing thourgh the Armory Distrcit. Neighbors shared their homes, treats and refreshments along the way. Truly delightful. This year Mike and I decided to collaborate to form an East Side caroling counterpart. And already we are hearing of other towns joining in by caroling in their own

neighborhoods. Join us! Whether you consider yourself a singer and regardless of religious or non-religious beliefs, everyone is invited to join us for a free festive family event. Two nights of holiday cheer, different location each night. On Sunday, December 19th; West Side Caroling starts from Loie Fuller's restaurant at 5pm and Wickford Caroling starts from Bagelz at 5pm. On Wednesday, December 22nd, East Side Caroling starts from Chez Pascal at 5:30. Details at Kidoinfo.