“One more game!” Leaving Grandma’s on Christmas Eve.
The hats are waiting in the hallway, but there’s a game still spread across the table. Before the coats go on, let the children finish one thing and tell them what you’ll do when you get home.
A last round, a drawing to take home and a goodbye
Agree a departure time with Grandma before the visit. As it gets closer, tell the children what there’s time to finish: “We’ll play this round, then take your drawing home.” The end of a round is clearer than another “in a minute”.
A Christmas letter can mention what comes next, perhaps switching on the tree lights together at home. Make the leaving arrangements yourselves. The traveller’s message can stay short: a few words about the road ahead and a friendly goodbye.
- Agree an approximate departure time with Grandma and decide who will read the message.
- Leave room to finish one specific thing: a drawing, the last round of a game or a hug.
- Name something you will do at home, such as turning on the tree lights together.
A small leaving plan
| Idea | How to try it at home |
|---|---|
| Give some notice | “We’ll finish this round, then take your drawing home.” |
| Before leaving | A hug, packing a drawing, saying goodbye. |
| Back home | “At home we will turn on the tree lights together.” |
“Will you switch on the tree lights when you get home? I’ll keep travelling for now. Give Grandma a wave from me too.”
Adapt them to the way your family talks.
If you stay longer, adjust the next messages and arrival time. With her own invitation, Grandma can follow the journey after you’ve left.