It’s Dr. Charnetta, Board-Certified Pediatrician, Communication Strategist, Parenting Educator and I’m deeply passionate about helping families thrive during the wild, wonderful journey of raising tweens and teens. Let’s chat about what matters most this holiday season.
The holidays are here—sparkling lights, festive music, and an endless list of things to do. It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle—planning meals, decorating, shopping, and checking all the boxes for a "perfect" season. But as parents of tweens and teens, it’s important to pause and ask ourselves: What really matters most?
At the heart of the holiday season is the celebration of Christ's birth—the ultimate reminder of love, peace, and the gift of grace. And while the gifts and traditions are wonderful, it’s our relationship with God and our connection with our families that truly make this season special.
Don’t Let Stress Steal the Joy
We often feel pressure to make the holidays magical for our kids. But here’s the truth: they won’t remember if the wrapping paper matched the tree. They won’t care if dinner was Pinterest-perfect. And guess what - they won’t remember how much money you spent. What they will remember is how they felt—how loved, seen, and cherished they were.
As parents, it’s tempting to take on too much and overwhelm ourselves with expectations. But when we’re stressed and stretched too thin, it’s hard to be present. So this year, I want to encourage you to let go of the unnecessary pressure. Your kids don’t need "perfect." They need YOU.
Make Every Moment Count
Tweens and teens may not always show it, but they still crave connection. Take time to create meaningful moments this season:
Have heart-to-heart talks over hot cocoa by the fire.
Turn off screens and share stories or play board games as a family.
Volunteer together to remind your family of the joy of giving back.
Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by reading the story of Jesus’ birth or attending a candlelight service together.
It’s these simple, intentional moments that strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
Take Time for Yourself
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Amidst all the giving, don’t forget to give yourself the gift of rest.
Carve out quiet moments to reflect on the beauty of Christ’s love and the blessings in your life.
Take a walk, enjoy a favorite book, or simply sit in the stillness with a warm cup of tea.
Let go of guilt and know that taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to be there for your family.
Focus on What Matters Most
The holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about presence. They’re about remembering the greatest gift of all, the birth of Jesus, and the love that fills our homes when we choose to prioritize relationships over "to-dos."
This season, give yourself permission to slow down, to let go of what doesn’t serve your family’s peace, and to celebrate the moments that truly matter.
Let the message of Christ’s birth inspire you to embrace joy, love, and connection this holiday season. Your family will thank you, and you’ll carry a sense of peace that no perfectly decorated tree could ever bring.
Merry Christmas to you and your family! Let’s make this season one to remember.
❤️ Dr. Charnetta
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