JUST five more sleeps until Christmas Day 2018. Depending on the type of parent you are you could have everything ready for the big day, or you may take a more ‘it’ll all come together in the fullness of time’ approach.

We have all fallen foul of the desire to buy everything our little ones for Christmas on the grounds that as they are centre of our world their happiness is key to ours.

Before you make a last dash to the shops though, take a deep breath and consider if that desire to provide everything materialistic will bring true happiness and contentment this year.

It has been reported recently that the average spend this year will be around £800-900, with a third of people surveyed stating that their most expensive gift bought will be for a child.

It is so easy to get caught up in the frenzy of Christmas and to easily find yourself frazzled and feeling a failure by the time December 25 comes around.

As parents we take on so much at this time of the year and often feel a heavy burden emotionally and financially.

Try to put your needs up there with the same priority as the rest of the family’s and give yourself a chance to take a break from it all.

Also getting the balance right and spending as much quality time with your family this year is key to happiness and contentment.

Take care of you and yours this year - wishing you a warm and loving family Christmas.

See: www.parentandbabycoach.co.uk

Next week: A time for reflection