t.v. guide

If you don't have kids in your home now, chances are you will during the holiday season. As the pitter-patter of little feet invades your inner sanctum, remember two things: One. Don't try to resist kids - it only makes them stronger, Two. Have fun already. Do you want to be known as the Spawn of Scrooge?

Kelli Ellis, designer on TLC's Clean Sweep and kid-wrangler in her own home, shows that a few quick preparations can help you get through the season with your holiday spirit, and glassware - intact. "One of the most important things to remember is safety", says Ellis, "Be sure to keep small, breakable items displayed up high, out of reach of little fingers. Be mindful of small food Items or displays of small items, as they are tempting to chew on and a choking hazard. And don't forget the basics, cover electrical outlets and make sure you secure cabinets that contain chemicals, but a safe home doesn't have to feel like a prison.

Make your house fun for tots with a craft center", says Ellis, "It's a fantastic way for them to stay very busy and feel like they have contributed in the festivities," Find a remote area that can easily be protected with plastic sheets and let the kids create the table centerpieces. For this, you'll need to stock up with plenty of paper, glue, safety scissors, feathers for turkeys, and glitter for ornaments. Younger children will take pride in these works of art: "A child feels everything they create is important enough and pretty enough to display on the living room wall, right above the sofa." At a loss for how to entertain older children who've become immune to the charms of SpongeBobSquarePants? Earn coolness points by stocking up on holiday DVD's. "They get everyone in the spirit!"

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