We’re talking mom to mom about parenting—and, of course, smart time management!
How can we be working moms, managers, busy parents, and still enjoy the holiday season without feeling overwhelmed? A few simple time management tips can make a big difference.
The key is to remember that we don’t have just one special day during the holiday season. We can create several special days that spread out the fun and reduce the stress.
Instead of squeezing everything into the final days of December, why not divide the holiday season into five manageable parts? Each part can have its own memorable day. This approach gives busy moms more time to enjoy the holidays without the last-minute rush and endless multitasking.
Part 1: Decorations Day
Start the season with a kid-friendly day to add a few new decorations to your collection.
Make the shopping trip part of the fun! Use the KidFriendlyVenues app to search under “Arts, Crafts and Music.” You may find local artists and creative shops selling unique holiday pieces.
Your kids can enjoy looking at colorful displays while you search for something special. From balloons and dried-fruit wreaths to wool baubles and gingerbread houses, there are plenty of creative options for a fun family day.
KFV-Approved Venue: Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket offers holiday fun at several Chicago-area locations, including:
- Daley Plaza
- Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville
- RiverEdge Park in Aurora
Season: November 20–December 24
Family-friendly features include:
- Kid-friendly access for buggies and strollers
- Good for kids
- Kid-friendly activities
- Kid-friendly environment
- Wheelchair accessible
A decorations day lets you shop, explore, and enjoy the holiday atmosphere without waiting until the last minute.
Part 2: Office Party Day
The holidays often bring office parties and extra time with colleagues. You may need to let one or two household tasks wait so you can enjoy the event.
But quality family time still matters.
Before your office party, use the KidFriendlyVenues app and search under “Food/Eating Establishments.” Find a fun place where you and the kids can enjoy an early meal or treat.
A pastry, pie, or milkshake at a charming old-fashioned coffee shop could be all it takes to make the kids happy.
Then you can head home with relaxed children, get ready for your office party, and enjoy your evening without feeling guilty.
Everyone wins!
KFV-Approved Venue: The Treehouse Play Cafe
Located in Lake Zurich, Illinois, The Treehouse Play Cafe offers:
- Kid-friendly safety
- Good for groups
- Kid-friendly activities
- Kid-friendly staff
- Wheelchair accessibility
Part 3: Birthday Festivities
Many families have children whose birthdays fall close to Christmas. That means two celebrations during an already busy season!
But two celebrations do not have to mean twice the stress.
The KidFriendlyVenues app offers plenty of ideas. Look under “Sports, Recreation and Hobbies” to find activities that match your child’s interests.
You might plan a birthday around a ball game, movie, gym activity, or another fun experience. These activities give children a chance to enjoy something different while avoiding the busy holiday shopping crowds.
You can also save time by choosing a venue with easy parking and family-friendly facilities.
High five!
KFV-Approved Venue: Schaumburg Boomers
The Schaumburg Boomers play at Wintrust Field, which many fans know as “mini Wrigley Field.”
Family-friendly features include:
- ADA accessibility
- Children 2 and younger do not need a ticket
- Coop’s Kids Corner
- Elevator
- First aid
- Ample free parking
- Unisex family restrooms
- Kid-friendly environment
Part 4: Kids-Free Day
Your teens are growing up quickly, and they may be asking for more freedom.
Fortunately, KidFriendlyVenues offers plenty of options for teenagers. Search the app under “Teens” to find activities they can enjoy.
While your kids skate, spin around the rink, or climb at an indoor gym, you can enjoy some quiet time nearby.
Find a comfortable seat, order a coffee and cake, and take a little break.
Technically, it’s your kids-free day—but you’re still close enough to keep an eye on them!
A little creative planning can give busy moms some much-needed time to relax.
KFV-Approved Venue: McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Located in Millennium Park, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers:
- Snacks and hot drinks for sale
- Wheelchair access on the ice
- Skate aids for rent
- Storage for personal items
- Good for kids
- Kid-friendly safety
Part 5: Outdoors Day
The presents have been opened, the holiday meals have been enjoyed, and there are still a few days left before the season ends.
Now it’s time to get outside!
After all those holiday treats, the whole family can benefit from some fresh air and exercise.
You don’t need to spend hours planning. Open the KidFriendlyVenues app and search under “Historical/Geographic Site Seeing.” You’ll find more ideas for family outings.
An outdoor family trip can give everyone a chance to move, explore, and learn something new. Your children can enjoy some exercise while discovering interesting facts about history, nature, or their city.
KFV-Approved Venue: Navy Pier, Chicago
Navy Pier offers plenty of family attractions, including:
- Chicago’s largest indoor lights experience
- Ice skating rink
- Santa’s Village
- Centennial Wheel
- Family attractions
- Good for groups
- Kid-friendly environment
Make the Holidays Less Stressful
The holiday season does not have to become one long rush from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day.
By dividing your plans into smaller, enjoyable days, you can spread out the shopping, celebrations, family activities, and relaxation.
Decorations Day, Office Party Day, Birthday Festivities, Kids-Free Day, and Outdoors Day can each give you something to look forward to.
Most importantly, this simple approach helps busy moms spend less time rushing and more time making memories with their families.
After all, isn’t that what the holidays are really about?
