Do you really have to have turkey? And how can you make sure cats keep their claws off your Christmas tree? Find out how Raisingkids' members relax and make the most of the festive season.

Don't forget to send cards to kids
Can't wait to see my son's face on Christmas morning! He received three cards from family today and his face lit up!!!!
Thanks to Raisingkids' Member Mable

Keeping cats (and kids) away from trees
You could try spraying the tree with a dilute mix of water and vinegar as I'm told the cats don't like this smell. Or an anti-scratch/claw spray as these will deter the lil' loves! Unplug the lights first!
Thanks to Raisingkids' Member nattie

My husband ties our tree to the top of a small table so the bottom of it is about 2 feet off the floor. He ties the top to a nail on the wall too. It is also in a corner of the living room, visible but out of reach to our children (unless they suddenly come into some money and buy themselves jet-packs!).
Thanks to Raisingkids' Member Celia

Dinner doesn't have to be a turkey trauma
I love Chrismas dinner - it's my favourite too but a few years back we decided to be 'radical' lol ..dispense with the hassle and all the washing up and eat whatever the heck we liked. We ended up with Pizza!
Thanks to Raisingkids' Member Ursula

And finally...
'Just enjoy Christmas the way you want to. It shouldn't be a stressful time of the year for anyone where possible!'
Thanks to Raisingkids' Member claireandrich

More Christmas tips? Let us know!
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• Christmas jokes for the kids
• Avoiding festive flashpoints
• Back to the Christmas section