How You Can Help Children With Holiday Stress

Holidays are supposed to be a joyful time, particularly for children, but many kids find them quite stressful and upsetting. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of stress such as unexplained crying, temper tantrums, or withdrawing from friends and family, it's time to let go of the notion of making each holiday "perfect." Instead, allow yourself -- and your kids -- to relax and enjoy each others company at this special time of year.

Instructions

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      Manage your own expectations. Children form their impressions based on how the adults around them handle situations, so don't let yourself get stressed out by a whirlwind of shopping, baking and decorating. Your child would rather spend quality time with you than have the perfect tree or a wide assortment of holiday treats.

    • 2

      De-emphasize gift giving. Blowing the family budget on presents you can't afford is no way to make for a happy holiday. Instead, set a budget and stick to it, and talk to your children about whether or not their wish list is realistic. If your little ones still believe that all gifts come from Santa Claus, tell them that even Santa doesn't have unlimited resources.

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      Don't over-schedule holiday happenings. Rushing around from one party to another is going to wear your kids out and decrease their enjoyment. Decide which events are going to be the most enjoyable for your child -- does he really want to see the "Nutcracker" or stand in line to sit on Santa's lap? -- and cut out all of the non-essential ones. Try for no more than one event per day, with some days built in just for "down time."

    • 4

      Get the kids involved in planning. Discuss your holiday plans well in advance so everyone knows what to expect, and let your child chime in with his suggestions and requests. While you may not be able to honor all of these, allow him some choices when it comes to non-essentials. A long-distance trip to Grandma's house may be a must, but kids will feel more involved if you let them choose what snacks and games to pack.

    • 5

      Maintain holiday traditions, as rituals can be very comforting for children. It is especially important to hold to these traditions even when family circumstances have changed over the past year. Doing so will have a grounding effect, reassuring your child that even in the midst of upheaval, some things stay the same. If your family has yet to establish any traditions, talk to your kids about which ones they might enjoy. Even something so simple as opening an Advent calendar or singing carols together will make for precious holiday memories.

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