It’s officially December, which means the holiday rush is on! Except… what if it wasn’t? This week, instead of getting caught up in the hustle, we invite you to slow down and remember that it’s okay to say “nope!” during the holidays. Besides, science actually shows that it’s experiences together that make kids happiest—not presents.

XO,

#TeamMotherly

PS. Here are six reasons all those December babies are extra special. Plus, this photographer’s photos about the magic of grandparents have us all .