Learn strategies to manage the holiday stress Dec. 1-15

This holiday season is bound to be different, but University of Illinois Extension is helping families manage the ups and downs.

In a three-part series, Extension educators will offer practical tips to help you and your family enjoy this special time without the fuss.

The free online webinars begin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 1-15. Register at go.illinois.edu/holidays.

If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Lisa Peterson, Extension Educator, Nutrition and Wellness, at lap5981@illinois.edu.

Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.

The first webinar, "Jolly Good Cooking for the Holidays-Substitutes, Swaps, and Seasons Greetings" will be 6:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1. Unwrap some fun, festive holiday cooking ideas. Learn quick substitutes, swaps, and the secrets to downsizing favorite family recipes.

On Dec. 8, it will be "Balancing Extra Calories through the Holidays" from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Is the "Elf on the Shelf" hiding extra calories in your holiday foods? Learn some tips to enjoy your favorites, along with a dash of physical activity. Keep your tinsel toes moving into the new year!

On Dec. 15, learn about "Making a List and Checking it Twice" from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Feeling overwhelmed with the holiday season? Take back control and stay on track as you reign in some of the chaos by making a list and simplifying your life. Simple steps you can take to decrease stress and enjoy the holidays.

The Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.