Christmas is a busy time of year. Between work, shoveling snow and planning for visits from family and friends, it can be hard to find time for yourself, not to mention time to get some shopping done away from the inquisitive eyes of children dying to know what they are getting.

On Friday Dec. 12, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., the YMCA of Austin’s “Parents Night Out” program is giving area parents a chance to take a shopping trip or just take a break from the rush of the holiday season, while letting their children enjoy fun and engaging activities. Even Santa Claus gets one night a year away from his elves.

“It’s a safe environment for the kids, and gives parents a chance to buy gifts or wrap presents without having to hide,” said Cindy Bowe, Austin YMCA Aquatic and Family Programming director.

The program, for children 3 to 12 years old, features many supervised activities. For December’s “Night Out,” there will be Christmas crafts, stories and games.

This is the first year for the program at the Austin YMCA — possibly the first of many. Bowe brought the idea to town after seeing the success of similar programs at other YMCAs she had visited while training. “It suits a community need,” she said.

The response for the first “Parents Night Out” in October was positive. There were 12 children in the program, and the YMCA is expecting more on Dec. 12, including some return visitors from October.

More programs are already being planned for February and April of next year. If the demand is there, it could become a monthly event Bowe said.

The cost of the program is $5 for members and $6.50 for non-members.

Children should bring a sack lunch.

To register for the program, or for more information, contact the Austin YMCA by Wednesday by calling 433-1804.