How to Ensure a Child Born Near Christmas Doesn't Feel Overlooked

The festive season is a magical time of year, filled with joy, celebration, and family gatherings. 

However, for children born on or near Christmas Day, their birthdays can sometimes feel overshadowed by the grandeur of the holidays.

A cousin of mine was born on Christmas Day, so I have some knowledge of what can happen.

Balancing the excitement of both Christmas and a birthday can be tricky, but with a little forethought, it’s possible to make sure your child feels special on their day, even amidst the yuletide celebrations. 

Here are some tips to help ensure your child’s birthday gets the attention it deserves.

1. Separate the Celebrations

One of the most important ways to ensure your child doesn’t feel overlooked is to clearly differentiate between their birthday and Christmas. Avoid combining birthday and Christmas gifts or wrapping birthday presents in Christmas paper. Birthdays should have their own unique focus, so celebrate with birthday-specific decorations, such as balloons and banners, rather than relying on festive décor. If possible, hold a party or celebration for their birthday that is distinct from Christmas festivities.

2. Choose a Special ‘Birthday Day’

If your child’s birthday falls on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or Boxing Day, it might be practical to celebrate on a nearby date. Some families choose to have a ‘half-birthday’ celebration in the summer months, while others move the birthday to a few days before or after Christmas. Find out what your child prefers. Some may love the idea of a Christmas birthday, while others may want a day all to themselves.

3. Give Their Birthday Equal Weight

Amidst the festive planning, make sure you’re giving as much thought and effort to your child’s birthday as you would at any other time of the year. Even if your schedule is busy, take time to plan something personal, like a favourite cake or a small gathering with their friends. Ensure their birthday isn’t treated as an afterthought compared to the holiday season. It’s vital that they feel their day is just as important as anyone else’s birthday.

4. Talk to Family and Friends

It’s a good idea to make extended family and friends aware of the importance of treating your child’s birthday separately from Christmas. Sometimes, well-meaning relatives might unintentionally combine presents or overlook the birthday in the midst of Christmas celebrations. Encourage them to celebrate your child’s birthday just as they would any other time of year.

5. Create Birthday Traditions

Establishing unique birthday traditions can help your child’s day feel special and separate from Christmas. This could include a birthday breakfast, a special outing, or even a themed party unrelated to Christmas. These little rituals can help differentiate the birthday from the general festive atmosphere, providing a sense of normalcy and consistency, no matter how close it is to Christmas.

6. Encourage Input from Your Child

As your child grows, involve them in the decision-making process. Do they enjoy the idea of a Christmas-themed birthday, or would they prefer something entirely separate? Giving them the option to choose how they want to celebrate allows them to feel more in control and heard. Whether they’d like a special day out or a cosy gathering with family, honour their preferences and ensure they feel valued.

7. Be Mindful of Combined Gifts

It’s easy to fall into the trap of giving combined birthday and Christmas presents, especially with larger or more expensive gifts. However, for a child, having separate gifts for each occasion can make both days feel special. Ensure that your child receives a birthday present that’s distinct from any Christmas gifts, and consider setting aside time on their birthday specifically for unwrapping it, without the distraction of Christmas gifts.

8. Plan Ahead

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to let birthday planning fall by the wayside. To prevent this, plan ahead as much as possible. Try to organise your child’s birthday well in advance of Christmas activities, so you’re not overwhelmed by the dual celebrations. Having everything prepared ensures your child’s birthday doesn’t get lost in the festive chaos.

9. Include Friends

For children who enjoy parties, arranging a birthday celebration with their friends can be tricky around Christmas, as many families are travelling or involved in their own holiday plans. To avoid scheduling conflicts, consider hosting a birthday party before the holiday season kicks off or in early January when life has calmed down. This ensures your child still gets to celebrate with their friends, even if the actual birthday date is too close to Christmas for a large gathering.

10. Cherish the Unique Occasion

Finally, remember that having a birthday around Christmas is special in its own right. While it can be challenging to balance the two, it’s also a time filled with joy, love, and togetherness. Highlight the positives of a Christmas birthday, and embrace the chance to make your child feel extra cherished during this festive time of year.

By making thoughtful decisions and taking the time to differentiate between Christmas and your child’s birthday, you can ensure that they feel celebrated, appreciated, and loved. After all, everyone deserves a special day that’s just about them, no matter when their birthday falls.