For those who receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), your payment comes early in December. CCB payments are sent on December 12th. 

I find it helpful for the CCB payment to come early instead of the usual 20th of the month. I also have to remind myself what I usually use the CCB payment for. Once I pay the bills, I usually do with the CCB, I am going to use the rest of it for other, more exciting things, like things for the kids’ stockings. 

December is a tough financial month with all the extra costs for holidays. The change in dates for government transfer payments like CCB adds confusion to an already hectic month. I have to remind myself that all the usual monthly expenses still remain and need my attention, too.

Another thing I try to do to keep focused is think about the no-cost and low-cost activities and traditions that make holidays special. That helps me remember ways to make those things special while honouring the limits of my finances. For us, going tobogganing and taking hot chocolate from home in a thermos is a favourite activity. 

Sit with the important people in your life and ask them what the important parts of the holiday are and what they want to remember about the time together in six months. Remember, not all those expectations will be possible to fulfil, so pick two or three really important and realistic things to focus on. That can help you all think of ways to make one another’s lives more wonderful while also lowering the pressure to meet everyone’s expectations to perfection.

One thing we do in our house is open one present at a time and spend time playing with that toy for a few hours before opening another present. That works for our family. Think of things your family values and make new traditions that work for you where you wish.