: Formal Christmas Tree vs Kid Friendly Tree

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(453 Words)
If children are involved in your life during Christmastime, then you will need to decide whether you want to get a formal Christmas tree or a kid-friendly tree. A formal Christmas tree may have glass balls on it, contain breakable ornaments, not be as sturdy, have lights that are extremely delicate, etc. A kid-friendly tree will have unbreakable ornaments such as those made of fabric and just be sturdier in general. There are advantages and disadvantages to each, and ultimately it will depend on your personal preferences and situation.
First you will need to think about the children who may be near the tree. If you have kids yourself, then it may make more sense to get a kid-friendly tree. Decorating a Christmas tree is great fun for the children, and you may feel bad if they cannot partake in this because the ornaments are so delicate. You may not want to have to constantly tell them to get back. If you do not have young kids living at your home, but some may visit, then you will need to think about several factors such as how closely they will want to be to the tree and how closely you want them to be near it. If it is your grandkids and you want them to be able to enjoy it, then you may choose a kid-friendly tree even though they do not live with you. If they will be visiting for just a short time, then you may want a more formal look.
Consider the look that you want. A formal Christmas tree can be very elegant. It may go nicely with your décor. You may want to impress others for a party, dinner or other event and feel that this is the way to do it. Just because a Christmas tree is kid-friendly does not mean that it is not attractive, however. There are many colorful and even elegant ornaments that you can use.
You must also consider safety. If your small child gets to a formal tree and shatters a glass ball then you will probably be more worried about him cutting himself accidently than the ornament. You may tell the kids to stay away from the formal tree, but some kids may not be able to resist the temptation.
Some people compromise by getting two trees. They may have a formal tree somewhere that is off-limits to the children such as in a formal living room. They may then have a family tree in the family room or another common location for the children. That is a great compromise. You can otherwise consider the above points when deciding whether a formal or kid-friendly Christmas tree is right for you.