Navigating the Holiday Hustle: Spotting and Soothing Your Kid's Festive Frazzle
So, the holiday season is upon us – the time for twinkling lights, festive tunes, and a dash of chaos.
But, hey, if your kiddo seems a bit out of sorts, here are three clues that they might be riding the rollercoaster of emotions this season and three tricks to help them find their holiday groove.
Signs Your Kiddo is in a Holiday Hurdle:
Super Sensitive Senses: Noticed your little one wincing at the holiday glitter or shying away from the sound of fireworks? Those extra-sensitive senses might be a sign that the festive flair is a tad overwhelming.
Meltdowns Galore: If your child's mood is swinging more than Santa's sleigh, and meltdowns are popping up like tinsel, it could be a sign that the holiday hoopla is a bit too much to handle.
Sleep, Where Art Thou?: Is bedtime becoming a saga? Changes in routine, excitement, or just the anticipation of holiday shenanigans might be keeping your kiddo from drifting off into dreamland.
Tricks to Unwind the Holiday Tangle:
Make Routines Your BFF: Wrangle in the chaos by sticking to routines. Let your kiddo know what's on the festive agenda and keep those routines in check. If you’re not at home and everything feels different, focus on the small things that are familiar and grounding. Predictability is like a cozy blanket for their nerves.
Nature Time for the Win: Take a breather from the holiday hustle with a bit of nature play. Whether it's a summer splash at the beach, a scavenger hunt in the backyard, or making mud pies by the creek, the great outdoors has a magical way of calming the storm.
Family Chill Sessions: Schedule some downtime with the fam. It could be watching the sunset from your favourite lookout, going out for ice cream and racing to eat it before it melts, or just having a good old chat on the back deck. Quality family time is like a soothing balm for those festive jitters.
In a Nutshell…
Yep, the holidays can be a wild ride for the little ones. But by spotting the signs, throwing in some nature play, and cherishing family moments, you'll help your kiddo jingle all the way through the festive frenzy.
Happy holidays, and may your season be merry and meltdown-free! 🎄✨
Written by Ellen Nesbitt. Ellen is a nature play advocate and creative writer with a passion for helping families connect with the outdoors. She is dedicated to exploring ways to nurture children's creativity, independence, wellbeing and love for nature.