Managing Holiday Stress: How to Keep Your Kids Calm

The holidays are here. So is the time for some festive treats, lots of joy, and, of course, your little one’s tantrums. And if you're a parent, you probably know that this season of joy can turn into a chaos of emotions and sugary highs and disrupted routines in an instant. So while your kids are waiting in excitement for the holidays, the added chaos can leave you overwhelmed about how to keep their little ones calm amidst the excitement.

Read this article to explore some of the most helpful tips for parents on how you can keep your kids calm despite the holiday stress.

The holiday season often means a break from routine with late bedtime routines, overexcitement of festivals alongside shopping trips, family gatherings, and parties. And it’s no surprise that kids can feel overwhelmed. The truth is—during the holidays, the schedules probably seem to fly out of the window. However, maintaining some balance is essential, whether it's sticking to a bedtime routine or mealtime. So, if your child usually naps after lunch, try to still tap into that routine even during holidays. After all, when he has taken proper rest, it's likely that they will show fewer tantrums.

The fact is—between holiday markets, parties, and playdates, it’s easy to overbook your calendar. However, too many activities can leave kids cranky. Instead, consider focusing on spending quality time rather than indulging in too many activities together. Bake cookies together, decorate your home, or snuggle up for a holiday movie night. Did you know in a latest survey almost 65 percent of parents believe enjoying experiences together brings the most joy during the holidays? After all, it’s not about doing everything; it’s about really cherishing the time you spend together.

The truth is—due to movies and commercials, kids often have sky-high expectations for the holidays. The better approach is to sit down as a family and discuss what the season will actually look like. Letting them know about realistic expectations will help prevent disappointment and meltdowns.

Even for adults, the hustle and bustle of the holidays can feel overwhelming. Therefore, it's essential to create a calm space in your home where your kids can sit down when they feel overwhelmed. This is the place where your child can retreat when they need a break. Just fill it with a cozy blanket, some stuffed animals, and perhaps their favorite book. And if you’re attending a family gathering, you might carry a ‘calming’ kit that includes their favorite toy or a puzzle to keep them distracted.

In short, calm parents calm kids. So the next time your stress levels are soaring, take a deep breath. Go for a walk, talk to a friend, or maybe just practice deep breathing. Lastly, don't forget that it's okay to turn down invitations if they feel overwhelming. The reason? Protecting your mental health is the best way to keep kids calm too during holidays.

While holidays are a big time of the year, especially for kids, they don't need to be perfect. What matters most is the love and memories you create with your family. This holiday season, forget the meltdowns and focus more on joy in those unexpected moments. With a little balance, you can actually help your kids stay calm amidst the holiday stress. And who knows, you’ll probably notice fewer tantrums.