My son is almost five years old, and mere mention of the approaching festivities is enough to send him into orbit.
He bombards me with questions about Santa, insistent in his concern that the man in red might get woofed at by our Jack Russell.
There’s the ‘festive’ trip to the cinema, the Christmas party, Christmas lunch and Christmas assembly.
It’s not that I don’t appreciate the efforts of my child’s nursery.
But as I lie awake late at night, mentally checking off the many festive-related tasks – isn’t it all a bit much?
Allyson Townhill
If your child has medical needs, Christmas fatigue can hold a different meaning.
Mum-of-two Allyson Townhill who lives in south Aberdeenshire plans in advance for events but is still faced with cancelling last minute.
Her two children, 13-year-old Roy, and Lucy, 10, were diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 3 in 2016.
Lucy uses as a wheelchair as does Allyson, while Roy can struggle with falling over.
“They did a lot of Christmas events when they were little, it was all part of Christmas and very important to us,” said Allyson.
“We now need to plan activities in advance a lot more, we can’t suddenly decide to go to Santa’s grotto.
“We take a step back from some of the events; I understand how overwhelming and exhausting it can be.
“It’s all about communication; if my children are tired or not wanting to do it, I want them to feel like they have a voice.”
Allyson tends to attend events offered by Charlie House, as the Aberdeen-based charity has offered invaluable support to her family.
“With the darker nights, it’s such a tiring time,” said Allyson.
“It’s amazing how exhausting this time of year can be, and now there are added pressures with the cost of living.
“A lot of medical families struggle, because they need to keep their heating on all the time.
“With those added pressures, Christmas can seem like quite an odious task.”
Gemma Bertolotto
For former teacher turned content creator Gemma Bertolotto, the key to enjoying Christmas is preparation.
Mum to Stefano, six, and three-year-old Sofia, Gemma has learned the hard way.
“Last year I went all out at Halloween; when December came around I was knackered,” said Gemma, who lives in Laurencekirk.
“I was so disappointed in myself, so this year I took time out in September.
“I ate well, slept and exercised because October to December is mayhem.
The family are heading to Disneyland Paris the week prior to Christmas, and also enjoy The Polar Express train ride at Brechin, which regularly sells out.
Gemma said her children are at an age where Christmas is completely magical, adding: “And we’re only going to get this time in life once.
“I start Christmas shopping in October, and I do the tablescape at the start of December.
“Every year I like to have a big theme for the table, this year it is The Nutcracker.
“For me it really sets the scene for Christmas Day, and I started it early instead of trying to do everything on Christmas Eve.”
Gemma also takes the pressure off on the day itself by not having the traditional dinner and instead opting for family-favourite Italian dishes which can be nibbled at throughout the day.
She also staggers visits with family, and “drip feeds” presents instead of cramming everything into one day.
“My children are excited because I am excited,” said Gemma.
“Preparation is key, not just for Christmas but for life in general.
“You can take the stress away by preparing early.”
Fact Box: How to avoid Christmas meltdowns
If we adults feel overwhelmed at this time of year, where does that leave our kids?
According to experts, keeping to your normal routine as much as possible can help avoid meltdowns.
Some parenting gurus believe that spreading presents out, instead of letting your child open them in one sitting, can help prevent overwhelm.
Many children experience what has been termed as anticipatory anxiety, especially when they are still learning how to regulate their emotions.
The combination of nerves and excitement can lead to kids acting up.
Be their safe space and remember, do Christmas your way.
Conversation