Managing Holiday Stress and Schedules
By: Kathryn Cooley
The holidays can be a magical time, filled with fun traditions and time spent making memories with loved ones. As adults, we’re no strangers to the stress that can sometimes stem from trying to make it all come together perfectly. Add the demands of caring for young children, and your holiday can easily go from wonderful to overwhelming.
Children can sense our stress and become just as frazzled with the frantic pace we set during the holidays. This may cause temper tantrums, interrupted sleep schedules and upset stomachs. Below are some tips to ease those holiday stressors:
Make a plan. Have each family member pick an event or activity that they want to do this holiday season. Your young child may want to decorate cookies and your teen may want to do a gift exchange with friends. Plan ahead so that each family member gets to participate in a special activity.
Less is more. Recognize that we cannot do it all. As the magic makers, we are inundated with ideas and activities that seem fun and exciting. A happy and relaxed parent will be more magical and memorable than making sure that you make it to every cookie exchange and tree lighting. Make a list of activities that are important to your family and say no to the rest.
Make a schedule. Explain plans for the day in advance, so kids know what to expect. For example, “We’ll be going to Grandma’s after lunch and staying until after it’s dark outside.” This predictability will help children feel less anxious.
Stick to a routine. It can be hard to stay on schedule when you’re traveling or hosting holiday gatherings. When it’s possible, try to follow your child’s normal schedule, including meals and bedtimes.
Let children help. It can be easy to ignore children when you’re caught up in holiday plans, but that only increases the risk for a meltdown. Children are more likely to cooperate if you include them in your plan, and you may even find that you are less stressed with the extra help.
Plan ahead. A big part of holiday stress involves traveling, and that can mean long waits. Waiting is especially hard for children, so plan in advance to have games and other distractions on hand. Bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket to help make far away places feel more familiar. And don’t forget to have healthy snacks on hand at all times. A hungry child is usually an uncooperative child.
Anticipate the post holiday slump. The holidays are a magical and fun time, so it is ok for kids to feel a bit of a let down when all the fun is over. Recognize that and validate your child’s feelings.