Even with all of the advice we have given you, you may just not feel like celebrating this year, and that is okay. Next year, when things have slowed down for you, you can do all the things that you did not do this year.
Martin said that this year's Christmas will be focused on his older child, since last year's was spent in the hospital. Instead of giving him toys, Martin and his wife will give him their love and attention.
In A Nutshell
Kerry Bone and Mara Tesler Stein list more advice at the conclusion of their article on surviving the holidays (at http://home.vicnet.net.au/~earlyed/dec/t...
-Alter old traditions
-Begin new traditions
-Give yourself permission to celebrate and feel joy
-Tell family and friends if you don't feel up to participating in activities
-Share your child with friends and family through photos, video tapes, NICU visits, etc.
If you have further advice for parents and family, please post a message at this site. We appreciate additional comments.
