It’s the most wonderful — and let’s be honest, most chaotic — time of the year, especially for parents. Whether you’ve got littles, tweens or teens at home, prepping for the holidays means juggling decorations, recitals, cookie swaps and shopping lists — all while trying to make the season magical and keep your sanity intact.
If you usually end up counting down the days until January 2, you’re not alone — I spoke with dozens of parents to get their tips, tricks and advice for thriving this season. The biggest takeaway? This year, instead of burning out on “merry and bright,” try gifting yourself a little more time (with help from brands like Little Spoon) — the rarest holiday luxury of all. Here’s how.
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How to (actually) save time this holiday season
Start the Season Early
The weeks between Thanksgiving and the new year tend to vanish in a blur of events, so multitasking early can buy you hours later. If your family’s already dressed up for a gathering, snap a quick photo you can use for cards or keepsakes.
Cooking ahead helps, too: double a batch of your favorite cookies or breads and freeze them for next month’s celebrations. It’s the closest thing to having your future self say, “you’re welcome.”
Simplify Mealtime Without Sacrificing Nutrition
Feeding kids well is a full-time job — and during the holidays, it can feel like overtime. That’s where Little Spoon comes in.
The brand makes freshly prepared, nutrient-dense meals and snacks for babies, toddlers and big kids — all made with clean ingredients and tested for over 500 potential contaminants (because “peace of mind” pairs well with “peace on earth”).
Whether you’re getting boxes delivered straight to your door or grabbing Little Spoon in Target stores nationwide or online, it’s an easy win: one less thing to cook, one more thing checked off your list.
Do a Pre-Holiday Edit
Before the influx of gifts and gear, help your kids go through their closets and toy bins to pick items to donate. You’ll make room for new arrivals and model the spirit of giving back — no jolly man in red required.
Spread Out the Celebrations
Instead of one marathon day of visits, consider hosting smaller, themed get-togethers throughout the month. A “cookie and cocoa” night here, a “movie and pajamas” evening there — more quality time, fewer meltdowns (yours included).
Ask for Babysitting Instead of Stuff
Sometimes the best present is time to yourself. Suggest “babysitting IOUs” from family or friends in place of traditional gifts.
You can use the time to wrap presents, finish errands — or just take a nap that doesn’t get interrupted by someone yelling your name.
Turn Kids Into Helpers
The secret to surviving the holidays? Delegation — disguised as fun. Kids love having official roles, so let them handle the stamps on cards, help stir cookie batter or play DJ while you decorate. They’ll feel included, and you’ll get to sip your coffee while it’s still hot.
Share the Wishlist
Instead of doing the annual “what should I get them?” dance with relatives, share a simple list of ideas your kids are genuinely excited about. It saves time, reduces duplicates, and makes holiday mornings more joyful for everyone.
Rethink Gift Giving Altogether
A thoughtful gift exchange or Secret Santa among adults can save everyone’s wallet and sanity. For friends and teachers, consider homemade gifts — simple treats, handwritten notes or even Little Spoon’s Plates and Smoothies for the families in your life who are always on the go. They’re the definition of practical joy.
Embrace the Shortcuts
Perfection is overrated. Gift bags beat wrapping paper every time. Disposable plates mean you can actually sit and talk after dinner. Store-bought cookie dough? Deliciously efficient.
Little Spoon’s entire ethos is built on this idea: that doing less doesn’t mean caring less — it means you’re prioritizing the right things. (Like time spent together over time spent in the kitchen.)
Schedule Time for Yourself
Put it on the calendar. Literally. Even thirty minutes of alone time — reading, walking or watching your favorite show — can recalibrate your entire week. Think of it as refueling before the next round of chaos.
The Bottom Line
The holidays don’t have to feel like a race to the finish line. With a few smart shortcuts and a little help from brands like Little Spoon that take “doing it all” off your plate, you can actually reclaim the joy that gets lost in the shuffle.
Because the real holiday magic isn’t about checking every box — it’s about giving yourself (and your family) the gift of time.
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