{31 Days to a Stress-Free Christmas} Day 30~A Box of Surprises

So what do you do when you when the kiddos get "bored" over the holidays? One would think that all the new toys and games that they got for Christmas would keep them busy for years. Usually that's not the case in our home. It is amazing how this "boredom" always hits right when I am in the middle of doing something important or when our dinner guests would like to linger over desert and coffee. There is nothing like bored whiny kids to raise my stress level. Enter- A Box of Surprises!! (This tip actually came from my oldest daughter and it is one I am going to use this year). To start this project, fine some type of box with a lid. It could be a small Rubbermaid box or a copy paper box. During the month of November start picking up some small kid friendly craft supplies from the dollar store or your favorite craft store. Include things like coloring books, stickers, markers, foam shapes, construction paper, plaster Christmas ornaments and paints, sun-catchers, etc. You may even have stuff around the house that your kids haven't seen. Simply put the supplies in the box and hide. Now when the boredom hits you are armed and dangerous creative. (The box can even have some new card games or puzzles that your kids have never played with.) Pull out your box and you have ready made fun. Busy kids....happy mom....no stress....it's a good thing.