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Reducing Family Stress at Holiday Time

Holiday time is one of the busiest times in the year for families with young children. If you have children, often the holiday season may cause more stress than the expected holiday cheer. Seeing children’s faces light up when they unwrap their special gifts is wonderful, however the weeks leading up to much anticipated days can be exhausting for everyone. The major holiday stress culprits? Going from store to store with the whole family in tow, the seemingly infinite parties, the sweet treats you fear will give your kids a buzz until February and the mountain of toys, gadgets and clothes that will be piled up in your house when the holidays are over.

These are some tips to reduce family stress at holiday time:

• Stop the presses and turn off the tube. Children and adults are constantly bombarded by “Buy, buy, buy.” We are enticed to want more by print and television advertisements.

• Remember to eat a balanced diet. Enjoy some festive treats along with the healthy alternatives like whole grains, fruits and vegetables for snacks and meals.

• Plan to avoid overstimulation. The crowds of people, noise and hustle and bustle at holiday events may cause some children to be overwhelmed with sensory stimulation. This can cause children to have a“melt down” or to completely “shut down”. Make a plan with your child. Let them know that if they feel overwhelmed or if you notice this happening, that they can have some quiet time alone with an adult (i.e. going to a quiet room or outside with an adult). Sometimes you might have to leave events earlier than planned. Remember for babies and toddlers, especially, that less is more.

• Prepare your child for special events at holiday time, such as parties, family meals, parades, faith services. Prior to the event: set the limits and rules for your child, tell your child how you expect them to behave and be sure to give them a special job to do.

• Plan ahead for some quiet time. Whatever you maybe celebrating – Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa– be sure to build in some time for relaxation and family togetherness. Tell or read holiday stories together, listen to holiday music or sing songs together. Remember children need time to just play.

Remember less is more! The holidays should be family time enjoyed by all, not just ‘endured’ or ‘survived’. It’s all about finding the right balance of activities for both you and your children. This special time of year will be more cheerful for everyone if you keep it simple and minimize the activities that you chose to participate
in. Fill your home with holiday fun. Help your children experience the fun that comes from things that do not involve money and do not require a lot of hustle and bustle. Remember do it … if it is fun and inspires joy!