Photo by Tom Rivers: Mike Donahue is the bugler while Taps was played as part of the Honor Guard on Dec. 14, 2024 during the first Wreaths Across America at Mount Albion Cemetery.

By Ginny Kropf and Tom Rivers

More than 2,300 wreaths will be set at veterans’ graves today at cemeteries in Albion, Holley/Clarendon, Medina and Lyndonville.

All four are hosting ceremonies at noon today as art of Wreaths Across America.

Volunteers will be placing 300 wreaths at Hillside Cemetery, about 450 in Lyndonville at Lynhaven and other sites, 360 at Mount Albion Cemetery, and over 1,260 in Medina at Boxwood, St. Mary’s and other cemeteries.

Medina was the first community in Orleans County to embrace Wreaths Across America in 2013. The wreaths are purchased for $17 each. The first year Medina had nine wreaths and now has over 1,200.

More than 5,600 communities around the country will honor service members laid to rest as part of Wreaths Across America.

Wreaths Across America began when Morrill Worcester, owner of a wreath company in Maine, visited Arlington National Cemetery and realized many veterans’ graves did not have wreaths.

That Christmas Worcester had extra wreaths and arranged to have them shipped to Arlington and placed on graves in the older part of the cemetery which had fewer visitors. His action picked up support, and since then Wreaths Across American has become a national tradition.

Kathy Blackburn pushed to start the effort in Medina and coordinated the program for about a decade. Tom Snyder is now heading Wreaths Across America in Medina.

He said 1,260 wreaths will be placed on veterans’ graves in Medina. A brief ceremony will begin at noon at Boxwood Cemetery, with Nik Mroz, director of Orleans County Veterans’ Services, as emcee.

Following the ceremony, which includes placing a wreath on the grave of a veteran from each branch of the military, volunteers will start placing the wreaths on the rest of the veterans’ graves in the cemetery. Snyder commended the Medina DPW, who placed the boxes of wreaths in strategic locations throughout the cemeteries.

Last year, Blackburn felt it was time to give up her role in the wreath project and turned it over to local businesswoman Gloria Snyder. This year Tom Snyder, who is Gloria’s brother-in-law and a Navy veteran, agreed to take on the project.

“I also take a wreath every year to my father’s grave at Mount Albion,” Snyder said.

Snyder encourages the public to consider buying a wreath for a veteran’s grave. During the month of December, they can be purchased for $17, buy one, get one free. Any resident may purchase one or make a donation to the project at the village office on Park Avenue.

2 villages working on joint application for state funding

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Village of Albion is pursuing a state grant to bring funding to rehab vacant residential units. This photo shows downtown Albion on Nov. 3.

Press Release, G&G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing

Albion and Medina are working together on a joint application to the state for funding to rehabilitate vacant rental units for housing.

Both villages will be hosting information meetings on Thursday, Dec. 18. The Albion meeting will be 5 p.m. at Village Hall, 35 East Bank St. with the Medina meeting at 7 p.m. at the Senior Center, 615 West Ave.

Landlords with vacant rental units in the villages of Albion and Medina are invited to attend an informational session for the New York State Vacant Rental Rehabilitation Program. This state-funded grant program is designed to assist property owners in bringing vacant rental units into active use through eligible rehabilitation work, supporting the broader goal of increasing access to quality rental housing in the community.

During the session, attendees will learn about program eligibility requirements, available funding, the application process, and how disbursements are handled. Albion and Medina will complete a joint grant application. The program will move forward if the grant is awarded by New York State.

The program will provide up to $75,000 per vacant rental unit for renovation (up to 5 units per building). There is no financial match for the property owner.

“This initiative presents an excellent opportunity for landlords to invest in their properties while contributing to housing stability in Albion and Medina,” said Jay Grasso of G&G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing, which is working with the villages on the application. “We’re excited to help local property owners understand how to take full advantage of the program.”

All property owners with vacant rental units in Albion and Medina are encouraged to attend. No registration is required.

For questions or additional information, please contact Nichola Ostrander at G&G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing at Nichola@ggprocess.com or (585) 368-8866.

Hometown Holiday features many activities on Dec. 13

File photo by Tom Rivers: This float carrying Santa and Mrs. Claus passes down Platt Street during last year’s Charles W. Howard Hometown Parade on Dec. 14. The parade tomorrow on Dec. 13 will have Santa in a boat to celebrate the Erie Canal bicentennial.

ALBION – A parade will feature 35 lighted floats on Saturday in Albion for the fifth annual lighted parade in the village.

The Charles W. Howard Hometown Parade begins at 6 p.m. on Route 31 at Dubby’s parking lot and heads to Route 98, goes down Main Street to Bank Street and then goes to Platt Street and concludes at Dubby’s, where there will be a party after the parade.

The parade is named in honor of Charles Howard, who ran a Santa School in Albion from 1937 to 1966. He also operated Christmas Park beginning in the mid-1950s. That site attracted about 80,000 people a year.

The parade will culminate with a float carrying Santa. This year Santa will be a boat as a tribute to the Erie Canal’s 200^th anniversary in 2025.

There are prizes for the top floats: $600 for first $400 for second, and $200 for third.

Ron Albertson will serve as the parade announcer from a stand on Main Street across from the Post Office.

Here is the schedule for Saturday for Albion’s Hometown Christmas:

• Shopping with Misfit Toys from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Downtown Browsery
• Free Ice Cream & Hot Chocolate from 10 a.m. to noon at Tinsel
• Kids’ Crafts from 10 a.m. to noon at Town and Country Quilt Shop
• Donuts & Coffee with Cops, and Kids’ Crafts from 10 a.m. to noon at Village Hall (35 E. Bank)
• Ornament Kits from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Check
• Tea with Mrs. Claus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hoag Library
• Free Chicken Dinners (while supplies last) beginning at noon from Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries at Masonic Lodge on Platt Street
• Fireside with Santa from 3 to 4 p.m. at Hearth & Home
• Christmas Traditions with crafts, cupcakes & free gifts from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Albion Free Methodist Church
• Charles W. Howard Hometown Parade begins at 6 p.m. at Dubby’s Tailgate, goes down Main St. and ends back at Dubby’s. (After the parade at Dubby’s visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus)
• Movie Night with free pizza, cocoa & candy at 7 p.m. at Albion Free Methodist Church
• All Day at 39 Problems – drink specials & live music after the parade

Press Release, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

Photo courtesy of DEC: Yongfeng Tian of Brooklyn reeled in a 3-pound, 4-ounce white perch to set a new state record.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that a fourth fish species officially qualified as a state record catch this year.

On Nov. 23, Yongfeng Tian of Brooklyn reeled in a 3-pound, 4-ounce white perch from Cross River Reservoir in Westchester County. Mr. Tian’s record-breaking catch surpassed the previous state record white perch caught in 1991 by 3 ounces.

“This latest State record is a testament to the incredible fishing opportunities that New York State’s waters provide,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “I would like to congratulate Mr. Tian on an impressive catch, and encourage all New Yorkers to visit DEC’s website to find an opportunity near you to catch the next record fish.”

White perch are a common freshwater fish found in lakes and rivers throughout the state, including the Hudson River. White perch are known for their schooling behavior and once located, can provide a lot of action. They can be caught on a variety of small baits and lures, such as jigs, worms, and minnows.

Mr. Tian submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC’s newly revamped Angler Achievement Awards Program, which tracks State record fish and recognizes anglers who catch any of the 40 eligible fish species that meet or exceed the minimum qualifying lengths established for that species.

Through this program, anglers can enter freshwater fish that meet specific qualifying criteria and receive official recognition of their catch, along with a species-specific sticker commemorating their achievement.

This morning’s sun rise included a sun pillar, a stunning optical phenomenon that appears as a vertical shaft of light extending up from the sun.

Tara Thom took the top photo on Gaines Basin Road at 7:36 a.m.

A sun pillar is caused by sunlight reflecting off tiny, flat, hexagonal ice crystals that flutter in the atmosphere from high-altitude clouds. That creates a glowing column.

“They develop as a result of ice crystals slowly falling through the air, reflecting the sun’s rays off of them,” the National Weather Service says. “Look for sun pillars when the sun is low on the horizon, and cirrus clouds are present.”

Theresa Ann Ottaviano took this photo behind her house on Telegraph Road in Medina.

Marsha Rivers took this photo from the elementary school parking lot in Albion, looking across Clarendon Road towards the Albion Town Hall.

Photos courtesy of Hoag Library: The Rochester Mandolin Orchestra will perform on Saturday at noon to cap this year’s series of concerts at the library in Albion. This will close out the third year of concerts at Hoag.

Press Release, Hoag Library

ALBION – Hoag Library is excited to announce that the Rochester Mandolin Orchestra will perform the final concert of the 2025 Hoag Library Music Series on Saturday at noon. This free community performance will take place at Hoag Library, bringing a dynamic year of live music to a memorable close.

Planning for the 2026 Music Series is already underway. Among the artists preparing to take the stage next year is the Medusa Quartet, a genre-bending chamber-folk ensemble known for reimagining the traditional string quartet. Additional performers will be announced as the new season approaches.

The Hoag Library Music Series, presented in partnership with GO Art!, showcases a diverse lineup of accomplished musicians throughout the year. This initiative is made possible with funding from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, supported by the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and administered by GO Art!

This winter, Adult Services Librarian Jim Doyle will also continue his hands-on music programming with Make a Mountain Dulcimer Classes and Learn a Dulcimer Song with Jim, offering patrons a unique opportunity to explore traditional folk music and instrument building.

For more information about upcoming concerts and music workshops, visit Hoag Library or follow us on social media.

Medusa Quartet will perform next year at Hoag Library.  The group is known for reimagining the traditional string quartet.

Photos by Tom Rivers

GAINES – Rob Batt, executive director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County, honors the “Friends of the Extension” during the CCE’s annual meeting last week at the Tavern on the Ridge.

Gary and Dawn Marciszewski received the award for their volunteer efforts running the Senior Council Stand during the week-long 4-H Fair. They order all the food and stay with the volunteers from morning to night.

The stand raises about $15,000 during the week to support 4-H programs.

The Marciszewskis have been involved with 4-H for decades. They were poultry superintendents and chaperones for trips. Mrs. Marciszewski also was a dog club leader.

They work with about 100 youths in the Senior Council Stand during the week. Mrs. Marciszewski said the kids enjoy taking responsibility when they have their shifts.

“They like to cook, make change and stock shelves,” she said. They like to do things.”

She and her husband have enjoyed watching the 4-Hers grow up over the years.

Jann Davis of West Barre, left, was honored as the 4-H Volunteer of the Year. She is presented the award by Kristina Gabalski, the 4-H program leader.

Davis is vice president of the Horse Program Development Committee and coach of the Horse Bowl and Hippology teams. A former 4-H program leader, Davis returned to volunteering with 4-H about two years ago. She joined a strong horse program that has dozens of youths, Gabalski said.

The program is Orleans, however, had limited equine knowledge-related programs and contests. Davis stepped in to run Horse Bowl and Hippology for Orleans County.

Horse Bowl is in a  Jeopardy-style format, giving youths a chance to showcase their horse knowledge in a competitive event. Horse Bowl asks questions about equine terms, the horse industry, feeding and care, and anatomy.

Hippology is more rigorous testing of equine science and application of equine knowledge in a competitive setting. “Hippo” means horse in Greek and “ology” is the study of.

Davis led teams in Horse Bowl and Hippology contests in regional contests last spring, and then the Hippology competition at the State Fair in August.

“Jann is incredibly knowledgeable, creative, enthusiastic, patient and kind,” Gabalski said. “She also understands the importance of setting expectations and challenges for youth while supporting them with the knowledge that they have the grit and ability to go outside their comfort zones and do these things.”

There are currently seven youths in the program. Davis said three more are expected to soon join.

Other 4-H leaders were recognized during the annual meeting:

• Barb Kurzowski for 27 years with the Rabbit Raisers and poultry clubs
• Erik Seielstad for 13 years with the robotics program
• Dawn Marciszewski for the 4-H Senior Council Stand
• Robyn Watts for 48 years with the Abundant Harvest 4-H Club. She also leads the Family and Consumer Science Program Development Committee.
• Melissa Asento for five years leading the Goat Busters Club.
• Bill Gerling for 35 years with the rabbit program

Caton Conde, president of the board of directors for the CCE, addressed about 75 people at the annual meeting. Conde was an active member of the 4-H program as a kid when she was Caton McKenna. She thanked the many 4-H volunteers for offering such a meaningful program in Orleans County.

“As a proud 4-H alum, I know firsthand how transformative the programs we offer can be,” Conde said. “Raising animals, learning new skills, showing at the fair – these moments create not only incredible memories but also a strong work ethic that stays with you for life.”

Conde said she felt so strongly about the 4-H, she named her daughter Clover, which is the 4-H logo. Her son is in the 4-H Lego Club. She looks forward to her children growing up in the program and showing animals and entering projects at the fair.

There are 319 youths enrolled in 4-H. They entered 3,337 exhibits at the county fair.

Some other highlights from the year:

• Master gardeners and food preservers completed 2,335 hours of service teaching 1,388 class participants
• Digital literacy served an average of 1.2 people very working day
• The Elderberries Senior Cooking program expanded to serve eight counties in WNY
• An average of 400 households attended monthly food distributions at the fairgrounds.
• Families used 2,000 seed packets from the master gardeners seed share program to start and grow their own plants at home
• Pesticide education supported 165 individuals taking pretest training for essential licensing

Photos by Tom Rivers: Sue Jones stands outside Black Walnut Home Care at 13713 Allis Rd. She opened the business last week with Nancy Donahue. The property has some impressive black walnut trees.

BARRE – A new option for assisted care is now available in Orleans County. Sue Jones and Nancy Donahue have opened their home for three senior citizens to stay.

Black Walnut Home Care LLC is available for up to three residents. Jones and Donahue want to provide a safe place for older residents in a family setting.

The two provided home care for developmentally disabled adults for over 10 years when they lived in New Hampshire. They moved to Barre on Allis Road three years ago to be closer to Donahue’s family.

The assisted care site is certified by the state, but not for medical care. They provide lodging, meals, medication oversight, laundry, outings, transportation to appointments and other social activities.

“We both like working with people,” Jones said at Black Walnut, which is located at 13713 Allis Rd.

Black Walnut Home Care includes a two-bedroom room and a single room. The cost is $2,500 a month for the single room and $2,300 to stay in the double room. That includes lodging, meals, transportation and care (not medical).

Both Jones and Donahue have long careers caring for other people. Since moving to Barre, Jones has worked for the State of New York providing direct care support in several of the state group homes in the Batavia area. Donahue has worked with seniors as an activities aide, playing Bingo, supervising outings, and doing crafts with the seniors of the Villages of Orleans in Albion.

Jones said many local seniors live on their own and struggle to keep up with day-to-day tasks. Their children often live far away.

She and Donahue wanted to offer an option that would be more affordable than most assisted care sites. They charge $2,500 a month for the single room, and $2,300 a month to be in the double room. That includes the lodging, meals, transportation and activities.

Jones and Donahue welcome people to visit the site for a tour to see if it’s a good fit for their needs. The residents will need to like animals. There are dogs and cats inside, and their also horses, goats and chickens.

Black Walnut also has a swimming pool and hot tub.

For more information, call Black Walnut at (585) 283-4281.

Sue Jones pets a cat in the living room at Black Walnut Home Care. There are several cats and dogs, as well as farm animals at the site.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Joe and Diane Argento opened Argento’s Bakery & Deli today at 117 North Liberty St. in Albion.

The couple expected to have a soft opening and news spread once they put the open sign out at 10 a.m.

“Our goal was to get our feet wet before the big grand opening, but word has definitely gotten out,” they posted on the Argento’s Facebook page. “We are beyond thankful for all the love and support everyone has shown us.”

Mr. Argento ran the Argento’s Kitchen diner in Elba for three years in the late 1990s. He then worked 17 years at Batavia Downs as a bartender, then as customers relations manager, and the final two years as the Homestretch Grill at the Downs. He retired on Aug. 30.

His wife also worked at Homestretch. They live about a mile from their business, the former location of Pretty Sweet Bakery.

The Argentos both retired from Batavia Downs, but didn’t want to end their work lives.

“We’re too young to retire,” Mr. Argento said.

He enjoys chatting with the customers and working alongside his wife.

The new deli and bakery is located at 117 North Liberty St., behind Five Star Bank and across from Arnold’s Auto Parts.

Joe Argento prepares the sandwiches and deli items while Diane “Di” makes the baked goods.

The couple may experiment with the hours. Right now it’s 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with Argento’s closed on Sunday and Monday.

The deli includes a soup of the day (today it was Italian wedding soup), a variety of subs, salads, and “sangweeches” which are large Italian style sandwiches.

The bakery includes cookies, pies, cheese cake, cupcakes, muffins, cannoli, cakesicles, cupcakes and rice pudding.

The Argentos said they are pleased to be in the historic downtown in a welcoming community.

“It’s a nice town,” Di Argento said. “Everybody is friendly.”

Customers can all ahead and order at 585-590-4924. Check the Argento’s Facebook page for more information.

Press Release, Orleans County Clerk Nadine Hanlon

ALBION – Orleans County Clerk Nadine Hanlon today said those who are still using a standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight will be faced with a new $45 fee from the Transportation Security Administrations (TSA) beginning Feb. 1.

Those who have a New York State REAL ID license, enhanced license, passport or other DHS trusted traveler cards like Nexus are not impacted.

“As many people know, REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights took full effect earlier this year after years of postponement,” said Hanlon.  “If you failed to get a REAL ID compliant document, TSA will soon begin charging you a fee to board a flight to cover the cost of an alternative ID verification process.”

Hanlon said specifically the fee is to use the TSA Confirm.ID process which uses advanced biometrics and biographic data for identification verification. Users will be directed to an online portal to provide personal details and documents. The approval is then good for 10 days.

 “I highly suggest people who plan on flying and have yet to get their REAL ID do so and avoid the new process and fee,” said Hanlon.

Hanlon reminded residents that New York State offers both a REAL ID license and Enhanced Driver’s License to meet the federal requirements. The difference is the Enhanced can be used for travel to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries.

Residents can visit www.dmv.ny.gov  to learn about the different options and the documentation you must bring to the DMV to be issued one. The Orleans County Clerk’s Office is also a passport acceptance agency. Click here to learn more.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – A figurine of Santa greets people at Snell Realtors on Main Street in Albion while the street lights are decorated with lights (looking like Candy Canes) by the Department of Public Works in Albion.

The Albion Merchants Association is planning its annual Hometown Holiday celebration on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with local businesses hosting activities including visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating and hot cocoa, holiday crafts for kids, carolers and live music.

There will be a lighted parade at 6 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available after the parade at Dubby’s Tailgate.

The Village Hall at 35-37 East Bank St. has three Christmas trees decorated for holidays. Many other storefronts also have displays for the Christmas season.

Provided photo: Nyla Gaylord, director of United Way of Orleans County, holds the Pillars of Homeless Service Award she received at the WNY Homeless Alliance 20th anniversary celebration on Dec. 5.

Nyla Gaylord, executive director of United Way of Orleans County, was recently recognized by the WNY Homeless Alliance with their Pillars of Homeless Service Award.

The award was presented Dec. 5 at Samuel’s Grande Manor in Williamsville, where more than 350 community members met for the WNY Homeless Alliance’s 20th anniversary celebration. The event recognized two decades of regional progress toward ending homelessness, and honored leaders whose long-standing dedication has strengthened the Western New York homeless response system.

A focal moment of the afternoon was the presentation of the award, which celebrated 21 individuals who have each contributed more than 20 years to supporting people experiencing homelessness. These honorees, whose combined careers represent centuries of advocacy and human compassion, were recognized for their steadfast service, innovation and leadership across the region.

Gaylord has a four-decade career in human services, which has been shaped by a commitment to walking alongside people whose struggles often go unseen.

Her work began in 1980 with Rural New York Farmworker Opportunities (now PathStone), where she provided assistance to migrant farmworkers and learned firsthand that advocacy, trust and dignity are essential to helping individuals move forward.

Over the years, she created programs and services to assist older adults, displaced homemakers, people with disabilities, refugees and individuals facing addiction, unemployment and mental health challenges. No matter the role, she witnessed a fundamental truth – without stable housing, people cannot begin to address unemployment, health or recovery.

In Orleans County Gaylord has led efforts to address the shortage of housing and rising homelessness. Following the 2022 closure of the Holley Hotel, she convened community partners for a countywide “Community Conversation on Housing,” which led to the opening of the county’s first warming center in 2023. Under her leadership, United Way continues to bring together government, nonprofit, business and grassroots partners to expand affordable housing options and respond to the growing number of residents without shelter.

The December celebration also featured a video chronicling the Homeless Alliance’s history, remarks from executive director Kexin Ma, and reflections from honorees Joy Tedeschi and Robyn Kreuger on the shared commitment that has shaped progress throughout Western New York, In a moment of national acknowledgment, Congressman Tim Kennedy’s office presented an Extension of Remarks to the Homeless Alliance – an honor that will join the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.

United Way of Orleans County extends appreciation to the Homeless Alliance and to all regional partners working to ensure every person has access to safe, stable housing. As the need grows, so does the organization’s commitment to collaboration, compassion and community-driven solutions.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Nyla Gaylord speaks in May during a housing forum that she helped lead for officials in Orleans County. That forum was held at the White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville.

By Valerie Mostyn, DSW, LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker for Oak Orchard Health

Valerie Mostyn

The holidays are a joyful time for many families, but they can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Parents are juggling work, school breaks, holiday events, shopping, and family obligations all at once.

While kids may be excited for time off from school, the change in routine can bring new challenges at home. The good news is that small changes and planning ahead can help families enjoy the holidays with less stress.

Helping Kids Keep Healthy Sleep Habits

When kids are home from school for extended breaks, sleep schedules can quickly fall apart. Late nights turn into sleeping until the afternoon. Then, when school starts again, kids are exhausted and the return to routine becomes a struggle.

Parents don’t need to keep a strict school-night schedule during break, but it helps to keep bedtimes and wake-up times close to normal, especially during the last few days before school begins again. Slowly moving bedtime earlier helps kids adjust without feeling overwhelmed.

Making Screen Time Easier to Manage

Managing screen time is one of the biggest challenges for families today, especially during breaks when kids are home more. Many kids stay up late gaming, scrolling, or texting, even after parents think they’re asleep.

Helpful tips for parents include:

• Set a clear “screens off” time each night
• Keep phones, tablets and gaming systems downstairs overnight
• Use built-in phone settings or parental controls
• Encourage reading, puzzles or quiet music before bed

Clear boundaries help kids sleep better and reduce daily conflicts at home.

Keeping Holiday Schedules Simple

Many parents feel pressure to fit everything into the holidays—shopping, parties, school events, family visits, sports and travel. Trying to do it all often leads to burnout.

Instead of overloading your calendar, choose what truly matters most to your family. Simple activities at home can bring just as much joy as big outings. Watching a holiday movie, decorating cookies, doing crafts or decorating your home together can all create lasting memories without added stress.

It’s okay to say no sometimes. Rest is just as important as celebration.

Easing the Pressure Around Holiday Spending

Money can be a major source of stress during the holidays. Kids may ask for expensive toys, clothes or electronics. But meaningful gifts don’t have to come with a big price tag.

Parents can:

• Choose one special gift and keep the rest simple
• Use secondhand shops for clothes, toys and books
• Talk openly with older kids about budgets
• Focus on experiences instead of expensive items

What kids remember most is spending time together—not the cost of what they receive.

When Sickness Changes Your Plans

Cold and flu season often overlaps with the holidays. When kids get sick, plans may have to change quickly. Big gatherings may need to be canceled, and disappointment can set in.

Parents can shift to low-key activities at home, such as movies, puzzles, music, and quiet time together. If family visits must be missed, video calls can help kids stay connected. And remember, holidays don’t have to happen on one specific day. Celebrating later is always an option.

Finding Balance for the Whole Family

The holidays don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful. What children need most is connection, stability, and love. Keeping routines steady, setting healthy screen limits, simplifying schedules, managing money wisely, and caring for emotional health can make a big difference.

Parents already do so much every day. During the holidays, giving yourself grace may be one of the most important gifts you give your family.