In my house growing up, we made a huge Christmas breakfast that we had to eat BEFORE we opened presents.  It was rich food that we weren’t used to, and we ate as fast as we could since we could see all the unopened presents from where we sat.  It was the perfect recipe for a stomachache.

 

Last year, we started a new tradition in our family that worked better than I could have imagined.  Before the children ran out to see what Santa brought, we all gathered in one child’s room and ate breakfast on a small table.   This year we’ll be bringing in a highchair as well.  They think it’s so fun to eat in their room, and we know its our best chance to get something good in their bellies before they load up with candy.  It is an intimate way to start the day, and set the tone for a fun Christmas morning with way less crankiness as in years past. 
 
We put a vinyl tablecloth underneath the eating area.  We fed them foods they normally eat, nothing special.  I think it was cheerios and bananas last year.  Give it a try if you have small children.  I’d love to hear how it works for you.