College mom’s guide to decorating for the holidays
November 21, 2012
There are plenty of things a single mom with a college scholarship will need to orchestrate with the holiday season fast approaching. Buying and wrapping presents, going to parties and cooking family meals take on a different sense of spirit and urgency when this time of year rolls around. Putting up stockings and decking the halls is as much a part of getting into the swing of things as the music on the radio and the displays in stores, and families are starting to decorate earlier each year.
One of the most important things to consider for a single mom is safety. While many decorations look good on the tree, they will be even more attractive to little hands and inquisitive mouths. Childproofing the house doesn't stop during the holidays, and here are some tips to reduce stress and make sure mom can focus on college scholarships instead.
•The Christmas tree is one of the most dangerous objects in the whole house. Glass ornaments, small baubles and pretty lights are a temptation that's hard for children to ignore. It's only a matter of time before a porcelain angel or a hot electric bulb gets a taste test, making these unsafe to put on the tree. Cheap plastic ornaments in big shapes or plain round orbs can be a better option. Skip the tinsel completely and don't use lights until the kids are old enough to know they shouldn't touch.
The same goes for the menorah. Fire flickers and feels warm, but eating candles or burning fingers won't be much of a mitzvah. While enjoying the glow of candlelight might be preferable for studying for college scholarships, these objects should be closely supervised or exchanged for safer methods.
•Keep the candy out of reach. This time of year is big on decorative chocolates and sweets in every size and flavor. On top of the fact that these treats aren't healthy, certain candies are definite choking hazards. Like everything else, these need to be removed from the house or placed out of reach.
•Avoid certain plants. This time of year, festive flowers and foliage are a regular part of the decor, but they aren't safe to have around pets and children. A single mom with a college scholarship should take a break from scholarly endeavors and read up on poinsettias, rhododendrons and lily-of-the-valley, as all are beautiful but are not safe for children.
