As a program, Head Start and Early Head Start are not able to provide direct holiday assistance, however, there are a few holidays when groups and organizations throughout the county assist those who are not able to provide their family the type of holiday experience that they would like. Often, they will reach out to programs, such as EHS/HS, who work with families who have suffered a recent hardship.
While we work in collaboration with these groups to connect them with families in need of their assistance, we also like to remind our families of the importance of tradition and memories. “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This quote by Maya Angelou perfectly describes the importance of the memories you will make as a family.
Focusing on the reason you are celebrating the holiday, and thinking about its importance to you and to your family can help guide the memories you create together. Were there certain traditions you had as a child? Are there traditions you did not have but that you would like to establish with your children? Are there certain foods you eat or stories you share? If it is a gift giving holiday, remember that children are not looking for a price tag. The excitement and surprise comes with being given a package, hidden by paper, wondering what could be inside, getting to peel away the covering and to find a gift that is just for you.
Remember, your holiday celebration is YOUR holiday celebration! You get to decide how and if your family will acknowledge holidays. If you do find yourself unable to celebrate how you would like, please discuss this with your Family Partnership Specialist.