The holiday season is often celebrated as a joyful time, but it can bring additional stress—especially for children with big emotions. Here are some practical tips to help you and your child find calm and joy this season.
Maintain Routines: With schools on break and family schedules changing, it’s tempting to relax routines. However, children often thrive on consistency. Try to maintain a predictable routine and give your children a sense of what to expect each day. A simple daily visual schedule, reviewed over breakfast or posted on the fridge, can provide stability for your child and keep your family organized during the busy season. Remember to maintain expectations and that whatever behavior you give attention to will grow!
- Set Realistic Expectations: Social media can create an idealized image of the holidays, leading to pressure on both kids and adults. Remind your family that these images don’t show the whole picture. Talk to your children about their holiday hopes, focusing on what’s realistic and meaningful for your family. Together, review traditions and decide which ones truly bring joy, adapting or setting aside those that no longer serve your family’s values.
- Prevent Overstimulation: Holiday gatherings, gifts, and festivities can be exciting but overwhelming. Set boundaries and incorporate breaks to help your child manage their emotions. If you’re at a crowded gathering, identify a quiet space where your child can recharge. Let them know that taking breaks is okay, and even model it yourself. Some children may ask for breaks naturally, while others might need guidance. Keep communication open so your child knows you’re there to support them.
- Take Care of Yourself: Your well-being sets an example for your children. The holidays can be demanding, so make time for self-care. While it’s natural to prioritize others, neglecting your own needs can impact the whole family. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and carve out moments to recharge. By managing your stress and sharing your emotions in a healthy way, you’re teaching your child resilience and emotional management.
- Capitalizing on Gatherings: Family gatherings are an opportunity for your child to practice the skills they are learning, like”brave talking.” Work with your child to set a small, achievable goal, such as asking a relative a question or sharing something about themselves. Role-play the interaction to build confidence, tie the goal to a specific reward, and keep expectations realistic. The focus is on celebrating small successes and building confidence.
With a little planning, practice, and compassion, the holidays can be a more enjoyable and less stressful time for the whole family. Remember, the season doesn’t have to be “perfect”—it’s about creating moments of connection and comfort that work for you and your children.
