The holiday season brings a sweet dose of joy, but it can also bring on a significant amount of stress. With the numerous demands of children and other family members, it can be particularly challenging.
With a little preparation, there are ways to ease the pressure and allow families to concentrate on what truly matters – togetherness.
Here are some tips to alleviate the stress associated with the smaller details of the holiday season.
- Cooking and baking – Even though children may sometimes create more challenges than assistance in the kitchen, consider cooking together as a chance to strengthen your bond and impart positive behavior lessons to your children. Start by giving them small instructions such as stirring or pouring in already measured ingredients. Each holiday chore can become an opportunity for bonding and teaching.
- Prepare for traveling – When embarking on a family trip to visit friends or relatives, it is wise to plan for travel delays. Traffic can cause havoc in your schedule and cause the little ones to become inpatient. Pack the car with bite-sized snacks and other things like books, coloring books, and small toys that can be given when challenges occur.
- Keep a routine – Holidays are often a time when schedules are different and regular routines become less regular! Think about creating a new routine that can be relaxed but also prioritizes sleeping and nutritious eating. This can lessen the crankiness and emotional outbursts that impact the entire family.
- Practice self-care – As a caregiver, understand this is also a good time to check in with yourself. Engaging in self-care can look different for everyone. Things like meditation, seeking assistance, prioritizing healthy eating and exercising are just a few of the ways you can take care of yourself. Consider the practice of self-care as a thoughtful gift to yourself, one that you undoubtedly deserve.
Start thinking of all the different ways you can help manage your holiday stress now. The holiday “magic” doesn’t have to be filled with stress and exhaustion if you plan for the small things.
Additional Resources
- 5 Tips to Ease Holiday Stress
- 7 Family Time and Learning Tips for the Holidays
- Quick Connections: Managing Big Feelings
Community Events
- Holiday Family Funday | Bluegrass Holiday: Multiple dates and times available.
- Christmas on the Farm: A Holiday Evening: Sat. December 9 at Carriage Hill MetroPark in Dayton from 5-7 p.m.
Learn Through Play Daily Activities: December
Help children learn through play by using one of the following age-specific monthly calendars that feature daily activities.