Creating family book club, playing games can help reduce holiday stress
Take a holiday from the holidays -- with a good read
It's December, which means it's time for food, parties and being of good cheer. This time of year can also be hectic with planning, shopping, parties and family and church commitments, so we all need to take a breather and relax with a good book. Among the marathon wrapping and baking, one needs to stop and remember what this time of year is about and what it means to them. So put down those scissors and tinsel and go to your local library. Find yourself a book that will soothe the "holiday horrids." Take time to catch up on a favorite author or series. Check out a lighthearted romance or delve into the world of mystery and intrigue.
Remember why the holidays are a special time to you and your family. Pull out a childhood favorite and share it as a family. Everyone loves the Charles Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol" or the eternally famous "'Twas the Night before Christmas," by Clement Clarke Moore, which was first published in 1823. For some, the holidays are a time of reflection and remembrance. Take time to set aside the chaos and reflect on the personal meaning of the holiday season and read faith-based books that reflect your beliefs. Individual reflection during this time can help with the seasonal stress we sometimes feel.
The kids will be out of school and need something to keep them busy and entertained during those long days of family and traveling. Encourage them to find a new book that they've never read before or would even consider. Challenge them to read a book that's higher than their current reading level. Or have your child read about a subject they aren't familiar with and get them excited about learning over the school break. Then let them discuss the book and share ideas.
Start a family book club. Read a short book over the holidays and discuss it as a family. Let your child pick a book the whole family can read. This will encourage them to think about reading and books differently, and not just as something the teacher is making them do. Have the discussions at the dinner table (which may encourage some of us to start having family dinners again) or have a book-themed family party where there are activities that can be based on the book such as a Pictionary- or Jeopardy-type of game.
Since the New Year is also coming up, make a resolution to join a local book club or start a neighborhood one. Try to include reading in your routine if it isn't already. There are numerous benefits to a regular reading regimen such as keeping your brain sharp -- it may help you sleep better, increase your vocabulary, improve your memory and concentration, or reduce stress. We all need help with those.
If there just isn't any time to put down those aforementioned scissors or tinsel, consider audiobooks. These wonders allow you to still be transported to other worlds or times while still combating that mountain of gift wrap or building the perfect gingerbread house.
Remember to take time for yourself this holiday season. Reading is a great way to unwind and forget the stress that sometimes looms over us during the holidays. Pick a read that is light and entertaining or a good escape. Get your loved ones involved and start new traditions that revolve around family and fun.
Meghan Kilgore is a reference librarian at the St. Helena Island library.
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This story was originally published December 6, 2014 at 4:00 PM with the headline "Creating family book club, playing games can help reduce holiday stress."