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It’s the holidays, and it’s a busy time for parents. Even with my master’s degree, I was totally unprepared for planning and executing the perfect Christmas experience for my daughter. While the holidays can bring out the best and worst in all of us, due to its scheduling demands and societal pressures, we’ll help you survive. We aren’t talking about thriving here. We are only talking about sheer survival…because behind every excited child’s face, as they glowingly reflect the wonders of Christmas, are stressed-out, overworked and exhausted parents.
We’ve been there, and we want to help. These items can take your holidays from stressed to blessed. In the spirit of giving, we’re sharing secrets only the most experienced parents know about holiday survival. We’ve rounded up the best items online to help you through the holiday season. Not only will they make things easier, but they will also help ensure your spouse does an equal share of the work. Now, we aren’t promising Christmas miracles, but this list will give you at least a little bit of Christmas cheer to ensure you don’t turn into a Grinch (but just in case, we have a shirt for that, see below).
Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
1. CRUST Cinnamon Rolls, $34.95 at Williams Sonoma
Williams Sonoma
Let’s be honest, after a late night of wrapping, we don’t always want to make breakfast on Christmas morning, it’s ok, I’m ok, you’re ok, and were all going to be ok. So, with help from our friends at Williams Sonoma, we can serve breakfast without doing all of the work. For those who are a little on the crafty side, present it on your favorite dish, toss some flour in your hair and on the counters, and your mother-in-law will think you spent all that time making these amazing rolls from scratch. Win-win. CRUST Cinnamon Rolls, $34.95 at Williams Sonoma
2. Yummly Smart Bluetooth Thermometer, $99.95 at Williams Sonoma
Williams Sonoma
If you have spouse, who doesn’t like to cook but loves gadgets, this little device will trick (I mean convince) them to take on the task of making the Christmas meal centerpiece. Before you can say, “sync this cool Bluetooth thermometer to a smartphone,” your Christmas goose will be cooked, and you just saved yourself a ton of work. Yummly Smart Bluetooth Thermometer, $99.95 at Williams Sonoma
3. Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker with Permanent Filter, $19.79 on Amazon
Amazon
I’m a coffee snob…not like a Mean Girls kind of snob. I just feel the same way about bad coffee that Ted Lasso feels about tea…cue his infamous spitting out dirt water scenario. I love coffee, and I’m particular about it. I’ve used all kinds of gadgets and makers. However, this simple, inexpensive coffee set is still my favorite way to brew beans. It’s easy, it’s fast and you can get fully caffeinated in no time. So, this holiday season, you don’t have to run on fumes. You can quickly enjoy your favorite coffee and fill up in no time! Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker with Permanent Filter, $19.79 on Amazon
4. Christmas Gift Bag Set, $14.99 on Amazon
Amazon
You just had your nails done, in a cute holiday style, and the last thing you want to do is ruin your manicure. Plus, let’s be honest, no one actually enjoys wrapping gifts. Between the paper tearing and the tape sticking to everything but the paper, I’m over it. Why not give yourself a break and buy this adorable set of gift bags? Christmas Gift Bag Set, $14.99 on Amazon
5. Christmas Elf Kitchen & Santa Claus Aprons Set, $17.99 on Amazon
Amazon
They often say clothing makes the person, so why not dress the part? These aprons will make it look like you walked right out of a Hallmark Christmas movie set. So, pretend your spouse is a single person in distress, rescue them and win their hearts with a freshly baked batch of Christmas cookies. For those with plenty of Christmas confidence, you can wear the Santa apron. However, if you are a little lacking in that area, start out with the elf apron and work your way up. Also, if you need a recipe for cookies, check out 31 Best Cookie Ideas. Specifically, look for Nana’s Sugar Cookies. Ever since I read this recipe, several years ago, I make them every year. I’ve never met Nana, but she deserves a cookie-baking award. Christmas Elf Kitchen & Santa Claus Aprons Set, $17.99 on Amazon
6. Magic Reindeer Food Premium Blend A Christmas Eve Tradition, $9.89 on Amazon
Amazon
The kids won’t go to bed, and you’ve got to have some time to argue with your spouse over who is going to eat the 20 carrots junior put out for Rudolph. Plus, you have to do other Christmas magical things. When you tell your kids Santa won’t come if they stay awake and it doesn’t work, take it up a notch. Put out the reindeer food. Trust me, it works, like magic, Christmas magic. Once they sprinkle the food out front, they will zip right off to bed. Favorite Magic Reindeer Food Premium Blend a Christmas Eve Tradition, $9.89 on Amazon
7. You’ve Been Naughty Bag with a Lump of Coal, $7.85 on Amazon
Amazon
You’re a passive aggressive person and your house is full of relatives. You’re mad at your spouse for telling the in laws that you didn’t really make the cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning. So, you need to keep the peace, but you want to send a silent message to your spouse that you are not happy. Slip this Christmas coal into their stocking. When they open it, they will laugh, and you will laugh. However, with a perfectly aimed steely glance, they will get its real message, and you don’t have to utter a single word. You may want to keep this on hand for emergencies. Even if you don’t need the coal, it’s always good to be prepared. You’ve Been Naughty Bag with a Lump of Coal, $7.85 on Amazon
8. Candescent Stress Balls – Set of 2, $12.95 on Amazon
Amazon
Let’s be honest, we all experience stress during the holidays. An easy way to relieve some of it is to use a stress ball. I’m sure that by the time the holidays are over, it will be a pile of dust. However, at least into the New Year, you will be able to open even the most difficult jar with your newly developed muscular grip. This ball comes in a two-pack, perfect for each hand, or you and your spouse can decompress together. Candescent Stress Balls – Set of 2, $12.95 on Amazon
9. Airblown Inflatable Grinch with Wreath, $30.39 on Amazon
Amazon
Get ready, because I’m about to drop some truth. I’ve actually done this, and I was considered a Christmas genius. I received more rave reviews over this than that time my husband and I spent two straight weeks Griswolding our house. I’m not even joking. This is so simple, and yet so genius, even the most Pinteresty friend will be in awe. Simply blow up the Grinch, put it out front of your house and with one single strand of outdoor lights, you will create sheer Christmas magic. Attach one side of the lights to your house and then wrap the rest around that evil Grinch. You have now created a scene fit for a Hollywood movie set, right in your own front yard. Plus, we love the question on the wreath that asks if it’s December 26th, because let’s be honest, we are all waiting for that date too. Airblown Inflatable Inflatable Grinch with Wreath, $30.39 on Amazon
10. Monet Art Book, $17.99 on Amazon
Amazon
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You’re having a lot of holiday guests. You want them to think you and your children are cultured and appreciate the finer things in life. They don’t need to know that your family has been spending most of its free time eating snacks and alternating between playing Mario Kart and watching Ted Lasso. Simply place this book on your coffee table, and just like that, you look like your family is really next level. You may want to read a few pages and teach your kids a few things about art, so you seem to fit the part. Monet Art Book, $17.99 on Amazon
11. Emergency Stain Remover Wipes, $17.99 on Amazon
Amazon
You’re at the holiday work party, and you or your spouse get the unavoidable smudge of guacamole on the white shirt. It happens every time. Simply excuse yourself and use one of these miracle wipes. Before you can say, “I hope they don’t think I’m a slob,” you’ll be back to looking your best. Emergency Stain Remover Wipes, $17.99 on Amazon
12. Holiday Traditions Hand Sanitizers, $8 at Bath & Body Works
Bath & Body Works
After COVID, we are all always thinking about germs. We just can’t help it. Since it’s the holidays, swap your industrial-hospital-smelling sanitizer for something that’s just what Santa ordered. This set from Bath & Body Works comes with enough to share, which is great, because if your friends are germ free…you can also remain germ free. Talk about a gift that keeps on not giving…germs. Holiday Traditions Hand Sanitizers, $8 at Bath & Body Works
13. Acorn Slipper Socks, $29.99 at Zappos
Zappos
Your house is full. Everyone is in bed. It’s been a great Christmas…but you want to do the walk of shame to the kitchen to devour leftovers. Why not make it a silent walk of shame? Leftovers are best enjoyed alone, when you can stick your fork directly into the pie pan without cutting a single piece (because you don’t want to leave any evidence). You know what I’m talking about, so don’t try to deny it. With these slipper socks, you can cozily sneak your way into the kitchen without waking up anyone else in the house. Then, you can dine like a king or queen without any interruptions. Acorn Slipper Socks, $29.99 at Zappos
14. This is a Self-Cleaning Kitchen Vintage Metal Sign Kitchen Décor, $9.99 on Amazon
Amazon
If this actually works, it may be the greatest invention since the microwave. When you inform your kids that the word “self” applies to them and is a shortened way to say “Santa’s elf,” cleaning becomes a fun and magical Christmas game. Once the relatives arrive, hopefully Santa’s selves keep up the good work! This is a Self-Cleaning Kitchen Clean Up After Yourself Vintage Metal Sign Kitchen Décor, $9.99 on Amazon
15. Amazon Smart Thermostat, $59.99 on Amazon
Amazon
There’s an age-old tale, two people meet, they marry and settle down for a happily ever after. This story NEVER includes the behind-the-scenes drama that ensues over the thermostat. During the holidays, when it’s cold, that’s when the battle really heats up. With this thermostat, you can plot a course that would make Dr. Evil proud. With the help of your new BFF, Alexa (because we girls must stick together), you can plot your plan to house temperature domination. Instead of arguing about whether it’s too hot or cold, simply use the app or have Alexa change the thermostat to your preferences. If the spouse notices…well, you know that darn technology, it must be doing it on its own. Disaster avoided. Amazon Smart Thermostat – ENERGY STAR certified, DIY install, Works with Alexa, $59.99 on Amazon
16. Dr. Seuss Classic Sly Grinch Pullover Hoodie, $39.99 on Amazon
Amazon
We all have bad days when we want to be left alone. Now, there’s an actual holiday-themed legitimate excuse that will allow you to be a bummer without actually ruining anyone else’s holiday fun. When you put on this Grinch sweatshirt, you have an excuse to get into character. No, you’re not actually grumpy, you are just playing the part. We especially love the hoodie. Simply put up the hood and send a very clear message that you are a mean one, Mr. Grinch. However, in this case, you will be adored by everyone around you. Dr. Seuss Classic Sly Grinch Pullover Hoodie, $39.99 on Amazon
17. Ring Video Doorbell, $59.99 on Amazon
Amazon
We all know Santa doesn’t ring doorbells. He is a strictly chimney kind of guy. So, if you want to avoid people for the holidays, simply get this doorbell. Cozy up by the fireplace and avoid unwanted guests. It’s the modern tech era’s way of screening your phone calls. Thanks to Ring, you can now screen your front door. Pair it with the abovementioned Grinch hoodie for the ultimate holiday experience. Ring Video Doorbell, $59.99 on Amazon
18. Martha Stewart Lighted Artificial Pine Christmas Tree, $351.99 at Wayfair
Wayfair
Back in the day, my mom proudly told my aunt we were getting our first artificial tree. My aunt said she was going to report our family to Martha Stewart for even thinking about it. Stewart, at the time, was known for her authentic, albeit natural, holiday décor. Nowadays, we’ve come a long way as a society. Martha Stewart now has her own line of artificial trees. I own a tree just like this one, and it is the best. This gorgeous tree is so pretty that you don’t even have to decorate it. Now, you can check tree trimming off of your list. Martha Stewart Lighted Artificial Pine Christmas Tree, $351.99 at Wayfair
19. Shiny Sequin Santa Hat, $15.99 on Amazon
Amazon
After staying up most of the night on Christmas Eve wrapping gifts, you’re tired. The last thing you want to do is walk around and hand out presents all morning. With this special hat, you can crown a lucky child as Santa’s special helper. Once they don this hat, they are appointed to hand out all of the gifts. Not only will your child be thrilled, but you can also rest easy on the couch and await the arrival of your gifts. Shiny Sequin Santa Hat, $15.99 on Amazon
20. The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition, $31.03 on Amazon
Amazon
I debated adding the elf to this list because the whole thing requires a lot of work for an entire month. Plus, there are plenty of horror stories, including my sister, who accidentally cooked hers in its oven hiding place, much to the sheer horror of my nieces. Yes, you will spend hours each evening trying to come up with clever ways to place the elf. Also, it’s become a holiday tradition to experience the sheer unbridled horror of leaving for work in the morning and realizing you forgot to move the elf. Please, let me save you from some real torture. Don’t buy more. More is not less. It doesn’t make things easier to have additional elves.
We have a small elf army, thanks to my husband. Every single year, we misplaced part of the army, and my daughter always noticed when certain ones were missing. We always had to buy more. I don’t even know how many we actually have, but I do have nightmares of waking up in the middle of the night with a thousand elves staring at me.
These elves will add so much fun to your Christmas experience and are a tradition-in-the-making. Plus, you can pass them on to your kids so that they have to do it for their future kids. All in good fun. I’ll probably need a fork lift to give my daughter her elf inheritance. The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition, $31.03 on Amazon
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