Parents are afraid that if their children are not doing well in school, that they will not succeed in life. Kid hasn’t made friends in the first week of first grade? She’ll end up a loner. Doesn’t get fifth grade math? He’ll never get into college. Can’t make the grade? She’s doomed to failure, he’ll be a loser. We know these thoughts are ridiculous, but they’re still so hard to shake.

First, keep in mind that Chanukah parties are at night, so during the day there is no reason not to be on track. If the kids are home or you’re extra busy with preparations, it will take some advance prep, but this should be easy.