How to help your kids at Christmas when you’re separated
Christmas, for many, is a time of celebration, reflection, and appreciation — and what better way for children to express love and gratitude for their parents than through a thoughtful gift? As separated/co-parents, you both work hard to raise your children, balance responsibilities, and create a nurturing environment. A Christmas gift from the children to their other parent can be a beautiful reminder of the love and teamwork that binds your family together.
Remember, this is about helping your children enjoy the giving of a gift and not about you getting credit or appreciation from the other parent. If the sentiment isn’t reciprocated, it’s easy to feel taken for granted and perhaps, cross. Try not to let the children witness such feelings if that’s what happens to you. This is about what they get out of it and doing the right thing for them, as a parent, irrespective of your relationship with your ex.
Whether your child is old enough to pick out a present themselves or you’re looking to create something meaningful together, the perfect gift will reflect the care, thoughtfulness, and appreciation that children feel for their other parent. Here are some great Christmas gift ideas that children can give to their other parent, helping them show love and gratitude.
- Personalised Gifts with a Special Touch
Personalised gifts are often the most memorable. A custom-made present allows children to put their own spin on something unique that holds sentimental value for both parents.
Gift Ideas:
- Engraved Jewellery: A simple piece of jewellery—like a necklace, bracelet, or keychain—engraved with the child’s name, birthdate, or a short heartfelt message can be a gift that any parent will treasure. https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/taylorcutco/product/personalised-rectangle-bar-necklace? h
- Handprint or Footprint Art: For younger children, handprint or footprint art can make a sweet and lasting gift. This can be turned into anything from a framed picture to a holiday ornament. https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/holduponheart/product/personalised-child-s-foil-handprint-footprint-print? h
- DIY Gifts Made with Love
Nothing says "I love you" like a homemade gift. Children can get creative with crafting, whether they’re young or old, and make something that’s truly unique and heartfelt for their other parent.
Gift Ideas:
- Handmade Christmas Cards: Have your child create a one-of-a-kind Christmas card with a personal message to the other parent. You can include a drawing, poem, or even a photo of a special moment.
- DIY Photo Frames: Let the kids decorate a plain wooden photo frame, then insert a favourite family photo. It’s a beautiful way to create a keepsake that will be displayed with pride.
- Homemade Treats: If the child is old enough, they can help bake cookies, make fudge, or create a jar of layered ingredients for a DIY cookie mix. Wrap the treats in festive packaging for a sweet and tasty gift.
- Practical Gifts That Make Life Easier
Parents often juggle a lot of responsibilities, so practical gifts that help simplify daily tasks can be much appreciated. Children can choose or create something that shows their care for making life a little easier.
Gift Ideas:
- Customized Mug or Travel Tumbler: A personalized mug or tumbler with a photo of the child or a special message can make mornings a little brighter for co-parents who rely on their coffee or tea to start the day. https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/welovetocreate/product/personalised-photograph-mug?
- Memories in the Making
Children can gift their parents something that captures memories in the making. Whether it’s a keepsake box or a memory jar, this type of gift allows for ongoing appreciation and reflection on the special moments shared together.
Gift Ideas:
- Memory Jar: A memory jar is a great way for both parents to reflect on happy moments throughout the year. Children can start the jar by adding their own handwritten notes or
- Gifts That Give Back
If your child has a giving spirit, helping them choose or create a gift that gives back to others can be an impactful way to spread the holiday cheer.
Gift Ideas:
- Handmade Gifts for Others: If your child enjoys crafting, encourage them to make small handmade gifts, like friendship bracelets or ornaments, to donate to a local shelter or community organisation.
Christmas can be a special time for families, and when children gift something meaningful to their parents, it reinforces the love and care that makes the family strong. Whether it’s a personalized keepsake, a homemade craft, or a memory-making experience, these gifts go beyond material items and show appreciation for the co-parenting journey. Ultimately, the best gifts are those that celebrate the bond between parents, children, and the family unit as a whole, making this holiday season even more memorable and joyful.
Whatever the state of your relationship with the other parent of your children, the focus needs to be on the children and helping them to continue their relationship with the other parents as positively as possible. They will struggle to do that without your help and support. It can be hard to do something positive if you’re relationship with the other parent is difficult in any way. Where that’s your experience, perhaps try to focus on what your children are getting from this, rather than any benefit to the other parent. That may help you engage in the experience and enjoy it with your children, rather than experience feeling of resentment.