While in the grocery store today, my daughter commented that Valentine’s day candy was already available to purchase. I nodded in agreement and told her that we should go shopping for Valentine’s day cards/treats for her class soon. My husband rolled his eyes, but I assured him that I always purchase this type of stuff early. That way I get the best selection. He shrugged because he didn’t understand. That’s okay because this is my specialty but it caused me to pause, and contemplate – what is my yearly schedule of preparation for various holidays? I came up with the list below:
When to Shop/Make Decisions for Kids - The Holiday Edition (AKA: Jen's List)
January – Valentine’s day treats
End of January/February -Anything needed for St. Patrick’s day (IE, do your kids have a cute green shirt to wear on St. Patrick's day or do you need any chocolate gold coins?)
February – Easter Dresses/Easter candy/anything needed for Easter (including cute plates, napkins,etc)
March – Start review of Summer camp options, possibly book/start
reviewing options for family vacation
April – Book summer vacation/purchase new swimsuits for the kids
May/Early June - Purchase anything needed for July 4th
End of July – Start back to school shopping
September – Buy Halloween costume/treats for class
October – Purchase Thanksgiving outfits/cutlery/anything need
for Thanksgiving
November – Purchase Christmas plates, napkins/order teacher gifts/finalize kids' wish lists
Does this align with your mental schedule of keeping track of the holidays? Do you have a better list? Share your ideas below. I'd love to know how you manage it all.
