Anticipation at Christmas tends to make most children just a little bit “hyperactive!” Columnist Tom McMahon in noting this tendency said that “there are times when we need to settle down, such as during a family meal.”

A grandparent sent him one solution: a lighted candle!

The grandparent wrote: “A candle’s glow calms children. One evening last Christmas we were gathered at the dining room table, being entertained by some noisy young grandchildren, when someone lighted a few candles on the table and shut off the overhead lights. Immediately the noise subsided and bright eyes enjoyed the glow from the candles. It had a calming effect on all of us, but especially the children . . .