Let your kids plan Christmas?

If you’re hosting your family’s holiday party this year and you want your kids to be involved, why not let them plan Christmas dinner? If they feel like they’re in charge, they won’t even realize they’re helping. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help orchestrate the event from conception to execution.

One month before
Have your kids look through cookbooks and decide what to serve on the big day. Don’t worry if they choose something unconventional—it could be a hit and become your family’s favorite new holiday tradition.

Three weeks before
Put your Christmas tree up, string it with lights and let the kids go hang the ornaments. Bring out the rest of your decorations and let them decide where everything goes this year.

Two weeks before
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the smell of gingerbread in the air. Have them bake and decorate cookies to give to their teachers as gifts.

One week before
If your kids are old enough to use scissors on their own, teach them how to wrap gifts, and make it their job. Just be sure they don’t tell grandma what you got her.

Five days before
Let them create a centerpiece for your holiday table. Even if you end up with a Star Wars themed Christmas, it’ll be unique and they’ll love it.

Three days before
Write a list of everything you need to make the dishes the kids picked and head to the market as a family. Give each child one or more ingredients to look out for.

The big day
Let your kids pick the holiday music, set the table and greet your guests.